Jones was able to perform well in exams despite a lack of academic effort. However, he found school regimented, and disliked the school uniforms and conformism in general; he angered teachers with his behaviour, though he was popular with others in his class. Jones himself said: "When I made the sixth form I found myself accepted by the older boys; suddenly I was in." His hostility to authority figures resulted in his suspension from school on two occasions. According to Dick Hattrell, a childhood friend: "He was a rebel without a cause, but when examinations came he was brilliant."