Police review CCTV following school knife incident

Haute Vallée school has reopened as Jersey Police continue to investigate a knife incident in the canteen at lunchtime on Monday (9 February).

A 14 year old boy was immediately restrained by staff, then arrested by police on their arrival at the secondary school in St Helier.

One student suffered a minor hand injury.

Police have been reviewing CCTV footage of the incident as part of their investigation.

The Education Minister Rob Ward has praised the response of the school community to what he has called the 'very serious' incident.

"I am deeply grateful to the school’s leadership, teaching staff and support teams for their swift, calm and highly professional response. Their actions ensured that the situation was brought under control quickly and safely.

"I would also like to acknowledge the exemplary conduct of students, who remained calm and cooperative throughout. The school community responded with maturity and resilience at a very challenging moment."

The deputy added:

"I want to emphasise that incidents of this nature are extremely rare, and the safety and wellbeing of young people remains our absolute priority."

Jersey's Chief Minister also commented on what happened at the school, writing on social media last night:

"Following an incident earlier today at Hautes Vallée School, in which a teenager was arrested over a knife-related matter, all students are safe and well, and we thank the police, school staff, and all those who assisted for their prompt and professional action."

Headteacher Stuart Hughes wrote to parents on Monday afternoon to tell them:

"A 14-year-old male was involved in an incident involving a knife in the canteen. Members of staff acted swiftly and decisively to restrain the teenager, and the police arrived imminently. The 14-year-old has been arrested."

He addressed pupils in a school assembly, alongside police officer.  Year 7 students were spoken to separately.

Mr Hughes said support would be offered to students and staff over the coming days.

"If your child is worried or upset over the coming days, please encourage them to speak with their tutor, Head of Year, or a member of our pastoral team tomorrow. We will continue to ensure that every young person feels safe and supported.

"I wish to stress once again that this is an extremely rare incident in which we are working closely with the States of Jersey Police and Education Department colleagues to further understand the events that occurred and ensure that the safety and wellbeing of student and staff is paramount.”

Philip Le Claire, Chair of Governors at Haute Vallée said:

"Staff responded with exceptional professionalism, and students remained calm, respectful, and supportive of one another throughout.

"Their conduct under such difficult circumstances has been exemplary.

"As this is now a live police investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.”