Manchester, UK — A former maths teacher has been convicted of sexually abusing two teenage pupils, in a case that has raised serious concerns about safeguarding and the abuse of trust within schools.
Rebecca Joynes, a former teacher in Greater Manchester, was found guilty in 2024 of six offences involving two teenage boys. One of the pupils was 15 when the relationship began, while the second was also 15 when contact started and was 16 when the sexual relationship allegedly began.
During the trial at Manchester Crown Court, the second pupil told jurors that he had sexual contact with Joynes on around 30 occasions. Prosecutors argued that the teacher exploited her position of authority and the vulnerability of the teenagers.
The court also heard that Joynes had been suspended and was on bail following allegations involving the first pupil when she became involved with the second teenager. Prosecutors said the relationship continued despite restrictions on her contact with children.
Joynes denied the allegations during the trial and maintained that she had not engaged in sexual activity with the first boy. She also disputed when her relationship with the second boy became sexual.
Following a two-week trial, the jury convicted her of four counts of sexual activity with a child and two counts of sexual activity with a child while in a position of trust.
Safeguarding concerns
The case highlights the importance of safeguarding procedures designed to protect children from adults who occupy positions of authority and trust.
Education professionals have a responsibility to maintain appropriate boundaries with pupils, and allegations involving teachers and students can have consequences extending far beyond the courtroom, potentially affecting victims, families, schools and wider confidence in child-protection systems.
The identities of the pupils involved are protected because they were minors.
This report is based on court reporting and published accounts of the case.
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