Knife incident prompts school security review

Security has been reviewed at Jersey's Haute Vallee school following Monday's knife incident.

Police will remain at the St Helier secondary for the rest of this week to reassure pupils, after a teenager was restrained and arrested in the school canteen on 9 February..

The force is continuing to investigate a 14 year old boy, who has also been arrested on suspicion of an attempted robbery in St Brelade two days earlier.*

Boy (14) arrested for attempted robbery with knife linked to Haute Vallee incident

Officers have been patrolling the school grounds, taking witnesses statements from staff and students, and reviewing CCTV footage.

In a letter to parents, Headteacher Stuart Hughes says there has been a full security audit of the school site and promised parents prompt action if any changes are needed.

"Understandably, parents and guardians are seeking reassurance that we are doing everything possible to prevent such an incident from happening again.  Site security has been reviewed, and any actions identified will be addressed over the coming days and weeks."

Staff have been praised for their swift reaction to what unfolded on Monday lunchtime, and for keeping the children safe.

Mr Hughes says additional support continues to be offered to pupils and colleagues, adding that he is considering what further training might be beneficial 'to ensure we continue to respond appropriately and effectively in all situations."

"I am extremely grateful for the support of fellow Headteachers across the island. This was an isolated incident, and one that none of us has previously experienced."

Education Minister Rob Ward has moved to reassure anxious parents across Jersey, after what he called this 'extremely rare' incident, that systems are in place across all schools to keep children safe.  He said:

"All government‑funded schools have robust site‑security measures in place. These typically include controlled entry points, secure perimeter fencing, visitor‑sign‑in systems, CCTV coverage, and routine monitoring of school grounds.

"Staff in every school are trained to recognise safeguarding concerns, manage risk and respond accordingly.

"Schools carry out regular drills for fire evacuations, and other critical incidents so that staff and students know exactly what to do.

"We work closely with the States of Jersey Police, who provide specialist guidance and support to schools, including joint planning, and rapid response where needed. This partnership ensures that any incident is dealt with quickly and safely, while also enabling schools to strengthen their procedures over time.

"Safety is not just a policy requirement - it is a shared commitment across Jersey’s education system, and it remains our highest priority.”

*UPDATE: Police have since charged a 14 year old in connection with the Haute Vallee incident:

"At 00:25hrs this morning a 14-year-old male who was arrested on suspicion of grave and criminal assault and possession of an offensive weapon, has now been charged with both offences and has been remanded in custody to attend Youth Court this morning."