Nursery Worker Found Guilty of Rape and Sexual Assault Against Five Toddlers in Bristol
A nursery worker in Bristol has been found guilty of a campaign of rape and sexual abuse against five toddlers in his care, in a case described by prosecutors as “every parent’s worst nightmare.”
Nathan Bennett, 30, was convicted at Bristol Crown Court on Monday of eight charges, including two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and four counts of sexual assault. The charges relate to five boys who were aged just two and three at the time of the offences. Bennett had previously admitted to 13 other sexual offences involving four of the same victims, including causing a child to engage in sexual activity.
Bennett, from Corston near Bath, committed the offences while employed at the Partou King Street Nursery in Bristol city centre. The court heard that he cultivated a “jealous attachment” to specific children, often isolating them from colleagues and other children to carry out the abuse.
Prosecutor Virginia Cornwall told the jury that Bennett was a “paedophile” who had “admitted his sexual interest in pre-school age toddlers.” During the trial, the court was told that Bennett presented himself as a credible and experienced childcare worker when he was hired in July 2024. However, staff later noticed concerning behavior, including Bennett sitting children on his lap for extended periods and wearing trousers with holes in the crotch area.
The abuse was finally uncovered in February 2025 when the nursery manager, Victoria Tutton, reviewed CCTV footage following concerns raised by parents and staff. The footage showed Bennett placing his hands inside a child’s trousers. He was immediately sent home, and the police were contacted, launching an investigation that led to his arrest and the subsequent closure of the nursery.
During the trial, the jury was shown pre-recorded video evidence from one of the victims, known as Child E. The young boy demonstrated to investigators how Bennett had abused him, providing crucial testimony that helped secure the conviction.
Detective Constable Bethany Cook of Avon and Somerset Police praised the bravery of the families involved. “Nathan Bennett was trusted to care for very young children but instead committed sexual offences against them at his place of work,” she said. “This investigation involving such young children was deeply challenging and distressing for all concerned.”
Judge William Hart remanded Bennett in custody following the guilty verdicts. He is scheduled to be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on March 16. The judge warned Bennett that he faces a significant custodial sentence for his “predatory” actions.
The Partou King Street Nursery has since closed permanently. Families of the victims have expressed devastation at the breach of trust, with legal representatives stating that the parents feel the safeguarding systems designed to protect their children failed completely.
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