Leeds Schools under lockdown: Doors and windows secured as students stay indoors following 'credible threat email' — Here's what occurred

Several schools in Leeds have been placed on lockdown after receiving a "credible threat" via email, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures to ensure the safety of students and staff. This unsettling development follows a similar incident in Greater Manchester just two days ago, where schools received malicious emails.

Lockdown Measures and Investigation

Parents of students attending the affected Leeds schools received emails instructing them to exercise vigilance when picking up their children and informing them that all school gates and windows would remain closed throughout the day. At present, six schools in Leeds are believed to be affected, with students being kept indoors as a safety precaution.


The West Yorkshire Police and Leeds City Council are actively investigating the situation. A spokesperson for the West Yorkshire Police stated that they were aware of the threatening email and were conducting an investigation.
In response to the threat, police officers are providing reassurance and safety guidance to the affected schools.

Affected Schools in Leeds

Among the schools impacted by the threat in Leeds are Sharp Lane Primary School, Windmill Primary School, and Richmond Hill Academy. These institutions implemented lockdown measures to protect students and staff from potential harm. An email from Sharp Lane Primary School informed parents of the credible threat and stated that a "soft invacuation" had been implemented, meaning all students would remain indoors throughout the day.

Previous Threat in Greater Manchester

This alarming incident in Leeds comes shortly after primary schools in Greater Manchester received a similar malicious email just two days ago. The Greater Manchester Police and Cheshire Constabulary initiated investigations into the threats contained in these emails.

While the police did not advise schools to close, they increased their presence around schools to provide reassurance to students, staff, and the public.

Parents and Schools Respond

Parents and schools have understandably expressed concern regarding the safety of their children. Some schools, including Lache Primary School in Chester, described the email threat as a "malicious hoax" and took precautionary measures by going into lockdown to ensure the safety of their students.

The investigation into these email threats remains ongoing, with both the West Yorkshire Police and Greater Manchester Police actively working to identify the individuals responsible. Authorities are taking these situations seriously and are committed to ensuring the security of educational institutions and their communities.

FAQs

Why are Leeds schools in lockdown?
Several schools in Leeds have implemented lockdown measures following the reception of an email containing what is deemed to be a 'credible threat.' LeedsLive is currently aware of at least six affected schools. The local council has provided these schools with details about the email, which contains threats of violence directed towards both students and staff members.

Is Leeds a good place to live?
Leeds has been recognized as one of the top places to reside in the UK, as acknowledged in The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2023 guide. This guide features Leeds among its list of the eight finest places to live in the North and North East regions. Notably, the guide highlights the city center of Leeds for its outstanding shopping options and vibrant cultural scene.