Tragic Death of Physics Teacher Following Dismissal
A respected physics teacher took his own life after being dismissed from his position at an exclusive Wiltshire college over an inappropriate joke made during an overseas school trip.
John Wright, 54, was found dead at an address in Marlborough on November 3, with police confirming the circumstances were not suspicious. An inquest opened at Swindon and Wiltshire Coroner’s Court on November 7, with a full hearing scheduled for a later date.
The Incident That Led to Dismissal
Mr Wright had taught physics for a decade at Marlborough College, where annual boarding fees exceed £61,000, before his dismissal during the summer holidays. The termination followed an internal investigation into his conduct during an exchange trip to the school's sister college in Malaysia, which included a side visit to Singapore.
According to reports, one remark that contributed to his dismissal was "No gum, no gays" - a reference to Singapore's ban on chewing gum and Malaysia's laws against homosexuality. The comment was made in front of 29 pupils from the Wiltshire public school who were participating in the trip.
A source described Mr Wright's comments as "just him being cheeky and silly," adding that he was known for making flippant remarks in front of both students and senior staff members.
Disciplinary Process and Aftermath
The college conducted both an internal investigation and a disciplinary hearing before deciding to dismiss the long-serving teacher. Mr Wright appealed the decision, but his appeal was unsuccessful.
His family have since described the disciplinary process as "outrageous", raising questions about proportionality in school disciplinary procedures.
Following news of Mr Wright's death, Marlborough College released a statement offering "heartfelt condolences" to his family and friends, while declining to comment further on the grounds that it would be inappropriate.
About Marlborough College
Marlborough College educates students aged 13 to 18, with current boarding fees set at £61,809 per year and day fees at £49,449. The institution counts Kate, Princess of Wales among its notable alumni, alongside her siblings Pippa and James Middleton, and comedian Jack Whitehall.
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