Cliff Notes
- Anthony John Felton, a headteacher, pleaded guilty to attempting to cause grievous bodily harm to his deputy, Richard Pyke, at St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Comprehensive School in South Wales.
- Judge Paul Thomas KC indicated that due to the serious nature of the attack, a custodial sentence is necessary, highlighting concerns over violence in educational settings.
- Felton’s sentencing is scheduled for 25 April, following his appearance via video link at Swansea Crown Court
Headteacher Anthony Felton admits attacking deputy at school | UK News
A headteacher has been told he faces a jail sentence after admitting to attacking his deputy at a school in South Wales.
Anthony John Felton, 54, appeared at Swansea Crown Court via video link from prison on Monday, wearing a grey jumper.
During the short hearing, he confirmed his name and that he could hear the court clerk, before he entered his guilty plea.
He faced one count of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent against Richard Pyke, 51.
Police were called to St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Comprehensive School in Aberavon, Neath Port Talbot, on Wednesday 5 March.
After the defendant entered his plea, John Hipkin, representing him, said: “On any view this is a spectacular fall from grace to say the least.”
Judge Paul Thomas KC said such was the seriousness of the offence that only a prison sentence could be justified.
“In the context of where and how this offence was committed, and in particular, bearing in mind the propensity of violence in schools perpetrated by pupils, it seems to me that my public duty require that only a prison sentence can be passed here,” the judge said.
Felton will be sentenced on 25 April.