An infant school in Rainham was placed into lockdown after a woman was allegedly spotted with a knife and scissors near a busy school area.
Whybridge Infant School, located on Ford Lane, was temporarily locked down for around 30 minutes on Tuesday afternoon (25 March) after police received reports of a woman seen carrying bladed objects outside the premises — an area home to three schools.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that they were called to the scene at around 2:50pm and detained a woman nearby. She was taken to hospital under the Mental Health Act.
Swift Action Taken to Protect Pupils
Suzi Longhurst, Headteacher at Whybridge Infant School, said:
“We temporarily locked down the school for about 30 minutes after hearing of an incident nearby.
This was in order to keep children and staff safe while the matter was being investigated by police.
The school was re-opened and pupils allowed to go home at 3.30pm.”
The swift lockdown ensured the safety of the children during the incident, which unfolded just as the school day was ending.
Other Schools Nearby Also Alerted
While Brittons Academy, another school in the area, was made aware of the incident, it did not enter lockdown. Principal Claire Whiley confirmed that the situation occurred after the school day had ended and there was no immediate risk to students on site.
“Senior staff at the academy became aware of an incident in the local area which police were dealing with,” Whiley said.
“Senior leaders liaised with police to support any students on their way home. The incident was contained effectively by local police and did not require further action from academy staff.”
Police Statement
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said:
“Police were called at 2.50pm on Tuesday (25 March) to reports of a woman alleged to be in possession of a knife and scissors in Ford Lane, Rainham.
Officers attended and detained the woman nearby.
She was subsequently detained under the Mental Health Act and taken to hospital.”
No injuries were reported, and the woman involved is now receiving medical care.
Parents and local residents have praised school staff and emergency services for their quick response in ensuring student safety.
More from: Havering
