Bullying and Suicide

Jan 30 2006

David James, South Wales Echo

Tragic Jonathan Reynolds left teachers with the impression he ‘didn’t have a care in the world’ just hours before killing himself.

The chair of governors at Bryntirion Comprehensive, Bridgend, said the 15-year-old gave no clue as to the strain he was under as he left school last Wednesday.

Reverend Edward Evans said: ‘My understanding is that this young man appeared to be very happy.

‘I was talking to the member of staff who left the premises with him that day.

‘He gave the impression that he didn’t have a care in the world.

‘He was going home to do his homework.’

Just hours later Jonathan left his home in Parkfields Road, Bridgend, and lay down in front of a moving train at Pencoed Railway station.

Police are investigating allegations that the bright, handsome youngster was bullied.

Parents of other youngsters at the school have said he was picked on – and that the abuse included name calling, spitting, and being beaten-up.

But Reverend Evans of Rogers Lane, Laleston, said Jonathan appeared a ‘very nice, likeable young man’ and that bullying had not been reported to the school.

‘I have gone on record to say that bullying will not be tolerated,’ he said.

‘The headteacher would have brought it to my attention.’

He added: ‘The problem is this can go on out of school and by people who are not connected with the school.

‘It iSean incredible tragedy that a young man felt there was no one he could turn to. I feel desperately sorry for him, his family and friendSeand also for the driver of the train.’

His predecessor as chair of governors, Mal Francis, said that there had always been a very strict regime towards bullying during his 15 years associated with the school.

He said: ‘I can assure you that the regime was always very strict. On the rare occasionSeanyone was caught bullying, they were suspended from school.

‘It was dealt with straight away.’

Jonathan’s devastated parents Mark and Caroline Reynolds have paid tribute to their ‘beautiful son’ who reportedly contacted them just before killing himself.