Adam Sherwood, a 57-year-old former teacher from Moseley, Birmingham, has been sentenced to two years and six months in prison for sexually assaulting two children while working as a private tutor. The offences took place between 2019 and 2023, and Sherwood was convicted in March 2026 following a trial at Birmingham Crown Court on four counts of sexual touching of a boy under the age of 13.
Abuse of trust as a private tutor
Sherwood tutored a boy in English and maths at his home on a weekly basis. During these sessions, he touched the boy inappropriately over a prolonged period until the victim alerted his parents. West Midlands Police stated that Sherwood “abused his position of trust while working as a tutor at his home.”
In addition to the abuse at his home, Sherwood also inappropriately touched another boy under the age of 13 at a climbing centre in Birmingham. When arrested and interviewed, Sherwood denied that the touching was sexual, blaming the first boy’s behaviour and claiming he was trying to get him to sit still during lessons. Regarding the climbing centre incident, he alleged he responded because the boy was about to kick him in the face.
Conviction and sentencing
On June 19, 2026, Sherwood was sentenced to two years and six months in prison and placed on the sex offenders register for life. Detective Constable Sarah Toye, from the Complex Child Abuse Investigation team, said: “Sherwood was in a position of trust which he took full advantage of to gain access to assault his victims.”
DC Toye added: “We are pleased he is now behind bars where he can reflect on his actions. I would like to also praise the two boys who showed such bravery throughout the investigation and court process where both attended to give evidence.”
Police praise victims’ bravery
West Midlands Police commended the courage of the two boys, who gave evidence during the trial. The force highlighted that Sherwood’s lies during interviews did not prevent his conviction, and the sentence reflects the severity of his crimes.
