Spalding: Schools' precautionary lockdowns lifted
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Further update: 6 January, 2.55pm
We are aware of rumours circulating regarding a reported 'intruder' at Spalding Academy. We are now in a position to confirm that there was no intruder on any school site in Spalding at any time this morning.
We received a report concerning a named individual, a ‘pupil’, who was allegedly carrying a knife intending to harm two other named pupils at Spalding Academy. Following attendance at multiple schools in the area and subsequent investigation, it has been confirmed that no weapons have been located and none of the three named individuals are known to schools in the local area. As such, the incident is being treated as a malicious communications matter.
Enquiries are ongoing to identify the source of the communication, which is now believed to have originated from outside of Lincolnshire.
Update: 6 January, 1.10pm
We were alerted to a potential concern relating to the safety of students at Spalding Academy this morning. As a precaution, neighbouring schools implemented their established safety procedures, and police attended additional sites following information identified through ongoing enquiries.
Due to the proactive action taken by officers, fast‑time enquiries were carried out to assess the information received. These enquiries have since enabled us to negate the initial concern and any potential threat to pupils and the wider community.
While investigations will continue, we are satisfied that there is no ongoing risk to pupils in Spalding on the back of this morning’s incident.
The local Neighbourhood Policing Team will continue to work with schools over the coming days to answer any questions they may have.
Original release: 6 January, 10.10am
Earlier this morning, 6 January, a number of schools in Spalding implemented a precautionary lockdown following a reported concern regarding safety.
Information came into our Force Control Room at 7.57am and the decision to enact lockdown procedures was taken swiftly in accordance with established safeguarding protocols. At all times, the safety and wellbeing of students and staff has been the highest priority. All pupils remain safe and supervised on school premises.
As soon as the concern was identified, fast-track investigations were initiated as a priority, and schools began working closely with the relevant authorities to assess the situation. These enquiries are ongoing, with appropriate resources deployed to ensure a thorough and timely assessment.
Lockdowns have been lifted, with a continued police presence in the area to reassure the community.
School staff are continuing to support students, and established safety procedures remain in place.
We recognise that incidents of this nature can be unsettling for families and the wider community. We would like to reassure parents, carers, and residents that precautionary lockdowns are designed to protect those on site while potential concerns are carefully and professionally assessed.
Inc 53 of 6 January refers