Police are currently questioning a 13-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a stabbing incident at Kingsbury High School in Brent, North West London. The investigation is being led by counter terrorism officers, although it has not yet been declared a terrorist incident.
Details of the Attack
Officers were called to the school at 12.40pm on Tuesday, February 10, after reports that a 13-year-old boy had been stabbed. Upon arrival, they discovered that a 12-year-old boy had also been injured in the attack. Both victims are understood to be in a serious condition.
According to witness accounts, the alleged attacker climbed over a wall to gain access to the school premises. One of the victims reportedly pulled the fire alarm to alert teachers to the emergency, an action praised by a parent who described the boy as a hero.
Police Investigation and Response
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams confirmed that a weapon believed to have been used in the stabbing was recovered, and the suspect was arrested after leaving the scene. He stated that police are keeping an open mind regarding the motivation behind the attack but emphasised the involvement of counter terrorism policing due to the surrounding circumstances.
Pupils were interviewed by police well into Tuesday evening, with some children seen leaving in tears. The father of one pupil described how children were traumatised by what happened in front of them.
School and Community Reaction
Headteacher Alex Thomas described the incident as a deeply traumatic event for the whole school community in a letter to parents. The Lower School was closed on Wednesday, while the Upper School remained open for students in Years 10-13.
Local and national figures have expressed their shock and concern:
- Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood called it a shocking attack and thanked police for their rapid response.
- Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said she is heartbroken about the stabbings.
- Brent Council leader Muhammed Butt described it as a deeply shocking and distressing incident.
- Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan urged anyone with information to contact police, stating that this awful violence has absolutely no place in our city.
Security and Policy Considerations
Schools minister Georgia Gould indicated that the Government could review security improvements in schools following the incident. However, she expressed opposition to the installation of metal detectors, highlighting the need for balanced measures.
The investigation continues, with police examining the suspect's devices and dozens of witness accounts to establish the full circumstances of what occurred.
About Kingsbury High School
Kingsbury High School is an academy for children aged 11 to 18, with 1,997 pupils according to the latest Department for Education data. The school traces its origins to Kingsbury County School, which opened in 1925. Notable alumni include:
- George Michael of Wham
- Jazz musician Courtney Pine
- Floyd Steadman, the first black captain of the Saracens rugby team
- Writer Ekow Eshun
The school community and authorities are working together to support those affected while the police investigation progresses.
