In a concerning incident, Holly Lodge Girls’ College in Liverpool was placed on lockdown on Monday, January 19, after receiving a “threat” via email. Parents and guardians of the students were promptly notified through text messages, informing them that the school had gone into lockdown to investigate the situation and ensure the safety of the pupils.
The first text message, sent at 2:55 pm, stated: “Please be aware, the school has been placed in lockdown whilst we investigate an incident on site. This will mean that your daughter will be kept in school after the school day until we are sure students are safe to leave.” A subsequent message at 3:25 pm confirmed that it was then safe for the students to leave the premises.
In a letter to parents and guardians, the school’s headteacher, Andy Keen, provided further details on the incident. He stated that the school had received a “potential incident” in the form of a non-specific emailed threat. Following advice from the police, the students were asked to remain in their classrooms with their teachers until the authorities could confirm that there was no risk.
Keen praised the students’ conduct, stating that they “conducted themselves impeccably and were calm and sensible throughout.” He also commended the school’s leadership team and staff for following all the necessary protocols and advice provided by the police.
Fortunately, the threat was later determined to be a hoax. Keen reassured parents that the school has secure visitor access control, and that such incidents, while concerning, are not uncommon for schools in the area. He emphasized that the police and other authorities have provided the school with the best possible advice, and that the school’s leadership team acted professionally to prioritize the safety and well-being of the students and the entire school community.
Merseyside Police confirmed that they had received a report of “malicious communications” and were investigating the incident. They urged anyone with information to come forward and contact the authorities.
The school has stated that all students should return to their normal schedules on Tuesday, and that they will be addressing the situation with the students to provide support and reassurance as needed.
