Jealous Headteacher Jailed for Wrench Attack on Deputy at School

A school headteacher who ambushed and attacked his deputy with a wrench due to “overwhelming sexual jealousy” has been sentenced to 28 months in prison.

Anthony John Felton, 54, pleaded guilty to attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent to his colleague, 51-year-old Richard Pyke, at St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Comprehensive School in Aberavon, Neath Port Talbot.

Shocking CCTV footage released by authorities shows Felton approaching Mr Pyke from behind and striking him with the tool. Felton had reportedly become consumed by jealousy, believing Mr Pyke had a relationship with a female teacher Felton had recently dated.

The attack occurred on March 5, 2025. After striking his colleague, Felton fled the school grounds in his car and later sent an email to staff apologizing for the “problems and distress” caused by his actions. Mr Pyke sustained minor injuries and was later discharged from hospital.

At Swansea Crown Court, the judge described the assault as “in effect an ambush,” noting that Mr Pyke had considered Felton a friend. Alongside the prison sentence, Felton was issued a restraining order.

Felton had only been appointed headteacher in September 2023. His actions shocked the school community and raised serious concerns about staff safety and mental health in educational institutions.