A HEADTEACHER is investigating after a pupil took a pen knife into school.

The incident at St Michael’s Primary School, Colchester, saw words said to other children which have caused “great concern” to headteacher Gail Morgan.

Bosses at the school in Camulodunum Way have vowed advice from external agencies will be sought if deemed necessary after the incident last Thursday.

Mrs Morgan stated it is “vitally important we educate the children on the dangers of knives” when approached by the Gazette.

In a letter to parents and carers, seen by the Gazette, Mrs Morgan said: “I would like to emphasise the seriousness of what happened is not being brushed under the carpet, it is being dealt with.

“I do understand all the concerns both you and your children have. Our school should be a place of safety for your children. It really saddens me this event has affected that.

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“I am dealing with the event, which is being taken very seriously. I need to ensure I fully investigate all aspects of the incident.

“It is not just the pen knife being brought into school - which is a serious event in itself - but also what was said to other children in the school which also causes me great concern.

“This as it emerged later in the day - has quite rightly frightened many children.”

Mrs Morgan added: “My aim is to ensure the children feel safe at St Michael’s and you [parents] feel confident this is the case.

“I would hope you feel as headteacher of St Michael’s my priority is always the children, their safety and emotional wellbeing.”

Mrs Morgan told the Gazette: “The school is dealing with this serious incident, putting the safety of the children at the centre as it deals with this matter.

“It is of paramount importance.

“Everything we do at St Michael’s is centred around the safeguarding of children, it is our most important job.”