Headteacher Jailed After Violent Attack on Deputy Over Love Triangle

A headteacher in South Wales has been sentenced to prison after attacking his deputy head in a shocking incident fueled by personal jealousy.

Dr. Anthony John Felton, 54, who was the headteacher of St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Comprehensive School in Aberavon, attacked Deputy Head Richard Pyke with a large adjustable spanner on March 5, 2025. The assault, captured on CCTV, showed Felton striking Pyke multiple times from behind while Pyke sat working at his desk. Another staff member intervened to stop the attack.

Investigations revealed that the attack was driven by what prosecutors described as “overwhelming sexual jealousy.” Felton had been in a relationship with a female colleague (a former pupil) and had recently discovered he was the father of her child. Believing that Pyke had started a relationship with the same woman, Felton’s emotions spiraled out of control.

Before the attack, Felton reportedly sent an emotional email to staff, hinting at his distress. After the incident, he fled the school premises, later sending an apology and resigning from his post.

During sentencing, Judge Paul Thomas described the attack as a “premeditated ambush” and handed Felton a two-year, four-month prison sentence. An indefinite restraining order was also placed against him. While the court acknowledged Felton’s personal hardships; including the recent death of his mother and a cancer diagnosis, the judge stressed that nothing justified such violence.

Deputy Head Pyke suffered minor physical injuries but reported severe emotional trauma from the unexpected assault. The case has raised concerns about maintaining professional boundaries and personal conduct within school communities.