Statement from Trinity Hall

We wish to update our community at Trinity Hall about several important developments following recent media coverage and concerns raised by students, staff, alumni and Fellows.

At its meeting on 10 March, the Governing Body authorised an immediate, external Inquiry into the College’s handling of all the allegations raised, and matters referred to, in the Tortoise Media article of 18 February 2020, and into the complaint made by the student named ‘John’ in the article. It has identified leading barrister Gemma White QC, of Blackstone Chambers, as the appropriate person to lead the Inquiry.

At its meeting, the Governing Body also accepted the resignation of Dr Nick Bampos as Vice-Master, and appointed Dr Daniel Tyler as Acting Vice-Master.

The College is committed to transparency as far as it is able, and the findings of the Inquiry will be made as widely available as possible. A further update to our community will follow in 21 days.

Dr Daniel Tyler, Acting Vice-Master, said: “I understand that the past weeks have been deeply upsetting and distressing for students, alumni, staff and Fellows. The safety and welfare of everyone here must be our absolute priority, and we’ve listened carefully to many important views on these sensitive issues. We’re determined to learn from recent events, take appropriate action to address the concerns, and restore trust. We see this Inquiry as a significant first step in the process”.