Former teacher Rebecca Joynes, 30, is serving a six-and-a-half-year prison sentence after being convicted of six sexual offences against two teenage boys she met through her job at a Greater Manchester school.
The Crimes and Conviction
Rebecca Joynes was found guilty following a nine-day trial at Manchester Crown Court in May 2024. The court heard she abused her position of trust to groom two pupils. She began a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old boy, referred to as Boy A, buying him a £345 Gucci belt and taking him to her Salford flat.
While suspended and under police investigation for that offence, she started another relationship with a second 15-year-old pupil, Boy B. She later became pregnant with his child, claiming sexual contact only began after he turned 16. A jury convicted her on all counts.
Life Behind Bars and Contact with Her Child
Joynes is believed to be held at HMP Styal, a closed prison in Cheshire for women. A recent remote teaching conduct panel heard she refused to attend and had no representation. Her life inside is governed by strict regulations, particularly regarding her infant, whose father is Boy B.
Prison rules allow inmates with children under 18 months to apply to have them live in a mother and baby unit, like those at Styal or HMP Bronzefield. However, for sentences longer than 18 months, arrangements are typically made for external care. All visits are under strict supervision.
Risks and Lasting Consequences
Due to the nature of her crimes, Joynes faces significant risks from other prisoners. A 2018 HM Prison and Probation Service study found child sex offenders are at the bottom of the prison hierarchy and frequently face bullying, harassment, and violence, even when segregated for protection.
Upon release, Joynes will be subject to lifelong sex offender registration, a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, and restraining orders relating to both victims. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson emphasised that sex offenders face strict licence conditions and can be returned to prison for any breach.
Senior Crown Prosecutor Jane Wilson stated: "She abused her position to groom and exploit two schoolboys in the worst way, with no thought for the lasting impact. Every parent sends their children to school expecting them to be safeguarded; Joynes's actions have eroded that trust."
