Benfield school in Newcastle has been locked down after an incident

Benfield School in Newcastle went into lockdown and staff and students were kept indoors after one person reportedly entered the campus.

The school has assured parents that the individual has not entered the school building or interacted with students or staff.

Read more: Man jailed over gas leaks and threats to blow up houses

Police were called to the scene and officers are believed to be in the area for some time. Parents also gathered in front of the school gates and waited to pick up their children.

In a statement published on Facebook, the school said: “We would like to inform all parents/carers that the Benfield School’s internal lockdown procedures have been activated today due to an incident in the community.”

school is closed. (Image: GORDON’S NEWS)

“Unidentified individuals entered the school parking lot, these were individuals not associated with the school and were not looking for or attempting to interact with students or staff.

“Following established emergency procedures, the school initiated a lockdown and notified Northumbria Police.

To receive more stories straight to your email cart, click here

“We assure you that at no time were there any intruders entering the school building. We remain in close contact with the police and will continue to assess the situation to ensure everyone’s safety.”

Around 1pm, the school issued another update confirming that the internal lockdown had been lifted.

Continue reading:

Get more out of The Northern Echo with a Premium Plus digital subscription from just £1.50 per week. Click here

A Northumbria Police spokesman added: “We are aware that there was rioting outside Benfield School on Benfield Road around 11.30am this morning (Monday).”

“As a precaution, staff and students stayed inside, although no one in the building was threatened.

“There is an increased police presence in the area surrounding the school to reassure parents and the community.”