Walney School pupils and staff praised for response to stabbing

A headteacher has praised staff and students at Walney School after a stabbing involving two pupils.

A 15-year-old boy was airlifted to Alder Hey Hospital yesterday with serious injuries after suffering multiple stab wounds on his body.

He has since been discharged.

A 16-year-old boy was subsequently arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent and remains in police custody.

Police were called by the North West Ambulance Service at around 10.10am, reporting that a pupil had suffered stab injuries following an attack inside the school.

A 16-year-old boy was detained at around 10.40am close to Barrow train station.

A statement was issued to parents and carers this afternoon by Walney School headteacher John Richardson.

It reads: “I am pleased to report that the victim of yesterday’s assault is making a rapid recovery and is being supported by family and friends.

“Today I have been truly humbled by your children. Their maturity and care for others in response to the very upsetting incident yesterday has been exemplary and has seen the school environment return immediately to one that is calm and learning focused.

“We have been supported in school today by a number of counsellors who have provided both one to one and group support to students who have requested this and this will continue where students feel that would be helpful.

“Throughout today, staff across the school have provided opportunities to discuss the incident where appropriate to ensure students feel reassured as we move forwards.

“Whilst the incident of yesterday has left a sense of shock across our school community, I assure you that this was an isolated event and was very quickly under control.

“The calm response observed in school today is testament to the ethos of our school community. Please continue to support this across our wider community with your ongoing respect for the families involved whilst the police continue with their enquiries.

“Please do not hesitate to contact the school office if there is anything you feel your child might need support with in the days ahead.”