Why a Sheffield primary school pressed panic alarm and sent ‘lockdown’ text to parents

Tinsley Meadows Primary Academy was placed on lockdown yesterday afternoon while children were at an after-school event at the Norborough Road-based school in Tinsley.

A text message was sent to parents advising them not to collect their children from the school because it had been placed on lockdown.

The text did not explain why, sparking widespread panic.

The school text said: “Please do not arrive to collect your child. The school is currently in lockdown.

“To reassure you all children are safe and well and staff are supervising and ensuring the welfare of your children.

“Thank you for your understanding in this matter.”

It has since emerged that the panic alarm was pressed at the school when a 19-year-old robbery victim arrived at the premises seeking help.

South Yorkshire Police said: “At 4.39pm on Thursday, December 5, officers were called to Tinsley Meadows Primary Academy on Norborough Road, Sheffield, following reports that a 19-year-old man had been the victim of a robbery. He wasn’t injured.

“The alleged victim had gone into the school to ask for help following the incident.

“Enquiries are ongoing.”

Schools are placed on lockdown as a safety precaution when there are incidents on their premises but they can also be closed for situation, including police operations, close to their grounds.

Nobody was harmed at the school yesterday.