Headteacher jailed for spanner attack on deputy in Wales

Head Teacher Sentenced for Violent Attack on Deputy

A head teacher who attacked his deputy with a spanner due to ‘overwhelming sexual jealousy’ has expressed his shame about the incident. Dr. Anthony John Felton, 54, was sentenced to over two years in prison after ambushing Richard Pyke at St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Comprehensive School in Aberavon, South Wales, on March 5 last year.

CCTV footage showed Felton taking the tool from his jacket and striking Mr. Pyke from behind, which shocked those in the public gallery at Swansea Crown Court. The court learned that Felton, who is married, had a child with another staff member and suspected she was involved with Mr. Pyke.

After serving four months in prison, Felton discussed the incident that ruined his personal and professional life. In an article for Inside Time, a newspaper for current and former prisoners, he stated, “I admit I was deeply ashamed of the offence that brought me to HMP Swansea.”

Felton pleaded guilty to attempted grievous bodily harm with intent on April 7. He reflected on his fear of being harmed while in prison and the anxiety he felt about his sentence. He was appointed headteacher in September 2023, according to an annual report from the governing body.

Victim’s Impact Statement

In a victim impact statement, Mr. Pyke shared that he would carry the effects of the attack for the rest of his life. He expressed his feelings of betrayal, stating, “I trusted you completely.” He described how Felton used their relationship to put him in a vulnerable position before the attack.

Judge Paul Thomas KC remarked that an attack by a head teacher on their deputy was “entirely without precedent” and stemmed from “overwhelming sexual jealousy.” He told Felton that the violence was triggered by his own actions and the rage from his affair.