Co-op Academy Walkden in Salford implemented a precautionary lockdown on Wednesday, June 10, after police were alerted to reports of an individual carrying a knife in the local area. The incident occurred just one day after a stabbing at another Co-op Academy in Manchester left two pupils and a teacher injured.
Police Response and Investigation
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed they responded to the report at approximately 12:20 pm and arrived at the scene within 10 minutes. Following initial inquiries, there is currently no confirmation that a knife was actually seen. The informant later stated they did not witness a weapon themselves but heard about it through friends. Officers continue to investigate the circumstances.
School's Precautionary Measures
Parents were notified of the incident just before 1 pm via a message from the school. The message stated: 'We have been alerted to an unknown individual in the local area who reportedly has a knife. Police have been alerted and are dealing with this. In the meantime there is no known threat to our Academy. As a precautionary measure all pupils are being kept indoors during lunch. We will update you as soon as we know more information from the police.'
Parents were advised not to contact their children directly, with all updates to be provided by the school.
Context: Previous Day's Stabbing
This incident follows a stabbing at Co-op Academy Manchester in Blackley on Tuesday, June 9. During that event, a male staff member was stabbed in the neck, a 14-year-old girl sustained knife injuries to her shoulder, and a 14-year-old boy suffered injuries to his ear. A 14-year-old girl was arrested on suspicion of Section 18 assault and remains in police custody.
Co-op Academies Trust praised staff at the Blackley school for acting bravely and swiftly detaining the student before emergency services arrived. The trust stated that the academy adheres to Department for Education guidelines on screening and searches but had no reason to conduct a search on any student that morning.
Community Reaction
Parents and relatives expressed shock at the events, which have sent ripples through the school community. GMP spokesperson added: 'Officers attended promptly and were on scene within 10 minutes. Following initial enquiries, there is currently no confirmation that a knife was seen. Officers continue to carry out enquiries to establish the full circumstances.'
