Parklands High School in Chorley evacuated after ‘bomb threat email’

A spokesperson for Parklands High School, on Southport Road, has issued a statement following the incident which saw an “immediate evacuation”,

Police attended the scene and conducted a thorough assessment, later confirming there was no credible risk to students or staff, the school has confirmed.

The bomb scare disrupted Year 11 examinations and a “full report will be sent to the exam board” so that today’s disruption is taken into consideration for all affected students.

It has been confirmed that the school will open as normal tomorrow. 

A spokesman for Parklands High School said: “We have dealt with a challenging situation at school today. Please be assured that throughout the incident, our absolute priority was the safety and well-being of your children.

“You may have seen reports in the media regarding a bomb threat email received by the school. In line with our safety procedures, we initiated an immediate evacuation and contacted the police.

“The police attended the scene, thoroughly assessed the situation, and have formally assured us that this was a non-credible threat and there was no risk to pupils and staff. The school building has since been fully secured for the night.

“We understand many students had to leave their personal property behind during the evacuation. Please be assured that all belongings are safe inside the building and will be available for collection when the school opens at 8.15 AM tomorrow.

“We successfully implemented our contingency plans for Year 11 students sitting their exams today. We extend our sincere thanks to St Michael’s and Southlands for their swift assistance and support. Please be assured that a full report will be sent to the exam board so that today’s disruption is taken into consideration for all affected students.

“The English Language exam will take place as normal tomorrow. To ensure students feel settled and supported, members of the English department will be available before school tomorrow morning for any additional reassurance or support required.

“School will be open as normal tomorrow.

“Every decision made today was done so with the best interests of our pupils and staff at heart. Thank you for your patience, understanding, and continued support.”

In an update issued at around 12pm, the school said: “Due to the fire alarm being triggered in school we are unfortunately asking that parents/carers please collect their child from school as soon as possible for safeguarding purposes, or allowing their child to walk home.

“As we have had to leave the building immediately, pupils will have to leave their possessions in school overnight. As there are GCSE exams taking place, Year 11 are to remain. More information will be sent in due course.Please accept our apologies but it is circumstances out of our control. Any issues please email houseleaders@ or message this page as we have no access to the building ourselves.”

Lancashire Police has been approached for comment.