Former Teacher Sentenced to Jail for Sexual Activity with Teenage Students

A former maths teacher, Rebecca Joynes, was handed a six-and-a-half-year prison sentence at Manchester Crown Court for engaging in sexual activity with two teenage boys. Joynes, aged 30, was convicted on six counts relating to her inappropriate relationships with the students. The court heard that she had initially slept with one pupil and later became pregnant by another while she was on police bail.

During the sentencing, Judge Kate Cornell condemned Joynes’ actions, highlighting the breach of trust and the impact on the vulnerable teenagers involved. Joynes, visibly emotional during the proceedings, had groomed the boys through flirty messages and inappropriate gifts, including a £350 Gucci belt purchased during a trip to the Trafford Centre.

Following the discovery of a love-bite on one of the boy’s neck, the authorities were alerted, leading to Joynes’ suspension pending a police investigation. Despite this, she continued her illicit behavior by inviting another student, Boy B, to her apartment for intimate encounters.

Joynes, who had been part of the Teach First teacher recruitment scheme, joined the school in 2018 after completing her studies. Her downward spiral, intensified by a messy breakup and pandemic-related challenges, played a role in her inappropriate actions towards the students.

Judge Cornell underscored the serious nature of Joynes’ offenses, emphasizing the lasting impact on the victims. Both boys, still in their mid-teens during the incidents, have faced significant emotional and psychological trauma due to the teacher’s manipulative behavior.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) North West, representing the prosecution, expressed concerns over the breach of trust by Joynes, a figure of authority tasked with safeguarding the students under her care. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and accountability within educational institutions.