A long-serving physics teacher at Marlborough College, John Wright, tragically took his own life following his dismissal over alleged “inappropriate conduct” during a school exchange trip to Malaysia, sources have revealed.
Wright had taught at the £60,000-a-year independent school, one of the country’s most prestigious, which counts the Princess of Wales among its alumni.
The 54-year-old was discovered by his wife, Rachel, at their family home on November 3.
Wiltshire Coroners Court confirmed that his cause of death was asphyxiation by ligature.
The inquest has been adjourned to a later date.
Career and Dismissal
Mr. Wright had dedicated a decade to teaching physics at Marlborough College.
He was reportedly dismissed after an internal investigation into his conduct on a 17-day exchange trip to the college’s sister school in Malaysia, which involved 29 pupils.
Following the disciplinary hearing, several allegations against him were upheld, and his subsequent appeal was unsuccessful.
A source close to the family described the disciplinary process as “outrageous” and said it deeply affected Mr. Wright, leaving colleagues shocked and concerned.
The Malaysia Exchange Trip
The exchange trip, part of Marlborough College’s Shell programme, took place in February.
Pupils from the Wiltshire campus visited Malaysia and Singapore, taking part in cultural and outdoor activities.
Photos and reports on the school website highlighted students stepping out of their comfort zones, trying new foods, and engaging in local traditions.
Interestingly, the website posts made no mention of Mr. Wright, and the nature of the allegations against him has remained unclear to those outside the investigation.
Sources suggest the disciplinary process was part of a stricter safeguarding regime at the school.
Community Reaction and Concerns
Colleagues described Mr. Wright as an outstanding teacher and expressed horror at the news.
Many noted a sense of fear and mistrust among staff, driven by heightened safeguarding rules.
A source suggested that the college leadership may also be sensitive to the school’s reputation, with speculation about future royal attendance adding pressure.
Wiltshire Police confirmed the death was sudden but not suspicious.
Officers remained at the home for several hours following the incident.
Personal Life and Background
Mr. Wright lived with his wife and two children just a short walk from the college.
Both were teachers, and the couple had previously lived in New Zealand before returning to the UK around ten years ago.
The Malaysia exchange trip was an opportunity for teachers and pupils to broaden their horizons, with visits to iconic landmarks such as Fort Canning, Marina Bay Sands, and Gardens by the Bay.
While the trip was celebrated on the school website, there is no public mention of Mr. Wright following the allegations.
Marlborough College and Its Legacy
Marlborough College, located in the historic market town of Marlborough, charges close to £60,000 per year.
The Princess of Wales attended the school in the late 1990s, and there has been speculation that her children may also follow in her footsteps.
The college has declined to comment on Mr. Wright’s death.
Support and Helplines
This tragic incident highlights the pressures teachers may face.
Anyone struggling with thoughts of suicide or in need of support can contact the Samaritans confidentially on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org.
Reflection
Mr. Wright’s death has sent shockwaves through the Marlborough College community, raising questions about disciplinary procedures, staff wellbeing, and safeguarding practices.
Colleagues remember him as a dedicated and passionate physics teacher whose loss is deeply felt.
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