Dr John Felton, the head teacher at St Joseph’s Catholic School and Sixth Form Centre in Port Talbot, Wales, has admitted to a charge of attempted wounding with intent following a violent altercation with his deputy head, Richard Pyke. This incident, which occurred on Wednesday, March 5, unfolded against a backdrop of allegations involving a love triangle that implicated a young female staff member at the school. Dr Felton, a married 54-year-old mathematician, resorted to a brutal attack with a heavy adjustable spanner, striking Mr Pyke five times in the head.

On the day of the assault, which was Ash Wednesday—a significant day in the Christian calendar—around 900 pupils were present on the premises. Prior to the attack, Dr Felton sent an email to staff, expressing his remorse and warning of the distress that the rest of the day would bring. In the email, he referred to a ‘great mistake’ in appointing the female teacher, alleging her involvement with Mr Pyke, among others, indicating a complex dynamic among school staff members.

This shocking escalation has left the educational community seeking answers about the circumstances that led to such a violent outburst from a head teacher known for his strict disciplinary measures and high expectations. The attack has prompted demands for a public inquiry, with parents voicing their concerns regarding the implications for the school environment and its commitment to upholding moral and educational standards.

Kim Isherwood, chair of Public Child Protection Wales, remarked on the gravity of a crime occurring on the grounds of an educational institution, highlighting the trust placed in educators as role models. Parents have expressed dismay at the situation, questioning the values being imparted to students in a Catholic school context. One mother voiced her discontent, asking: “What is St Joseph’s actually teaching the children? That adultery is OK? That it’s OK to cheat on your wife, children and family?”

Following the attack, which reportedly had echoes in classrooms nearby as students heard the altercation, Mr Pyke was taken to hospital but sustained non life-threatening injuries. Witnesses indicated that his cries for help were audible even through classroom walls before a fellow teacher intervened.

Dr Felton’s history at St Joseph’s is noteworthy; he had been with the school since 2001, rising through various ranks before becoming head teacher in 2023. Known as a committed maths teacher, he had previously been described by former students as inspirational. However, concerns about his leadership style had emerged, with reports of him being overly strict and micromanaging staff.

The recent months leading up to the incident had seen Dr Felton reportedly grappling with significant pressures to raise educational standards within the school. He had faced scrutiny in a tribunal hearing for the treatment of a student with special educational needs, leading to a mandate for staff training on neurodiversity.

The unfolding events and the motivations behind them have raised alarms, prompting calls for introspection about the internal dynamics at St Joseph’s. A spokesperson for Neath Port Talbot Council stated that it would be inappropriate to comment during the ongoing judicial process but reiterated the commitment to ensuring a safe environment for all.

Dr Felton’s attack not only marks a significant departure from his previously esteemed role but also poses a critical reflection on the challenges facing educational leaders in maintaining both personal integrity and professional conduct. He is scheduled to be sentenced on April 25, with a custodial sentence anticipated following his guilty plea at Swansea Crown Court.

Source: Noah Wire Services