Pupils at Co-op Academy Walkden were kept inside the school during lunchtime on Wednesday after a report of a person with a knife near the school, a precautionary measure that has resonated with parents and educators across Oldham. The school, part of the Co-op Academy trust which also runs Co-op Academy Oldham, acted swiftly to ensure student safety while police investigated.

Parents received a message shortly before 1pm, informing them: "We have been alerted to an unknown individual in the local area who reportedly has a knife. Police have been alerted and are dealing with this. In the meantime there is no known threat to our Academy. As a precautionary measure all pupils are being kept indoors during lunch." The school advised parents not to contact their children and promised further updates.

Greater Manchester Police responded promptly, arriving within 10 minutes of the call at 12.20pm. After initial enquiries, a police spokesperson said: "There is currently no confirmation that a knife was seen. The informant has since stated they did not see a weapon themselves but instead heard it through friends. Officers continue to carry out enquiries to establish the full circumstances."

This incident follows a more serious stabbing at Co-op Academy Manchester on Tuesday, where a male staff member was stabbed in the neck, a 14-year-old girl suffered knife injuries to her shoulder, and a 14-year-old boy sustained ear injuries. A 14-year-old girl has been arrested on suspicion of Section 18 assault and remains in police custody. The trust commended staff for their bravery in quickly detaining the pupil before emergency services arrived.

Addressing security concerns, a trust spokesperson said the academy follows Department for Education guidance on screening and searches but had no reason to search any student on the morning of the Manchester incident. The events have prompted discussions about school safety across the trust, including at Co-op Academy Oldham.

Parents in Oldham have expressed shock at the incidents but appreciate the swift actions taken by schools and police. The community is united in ensuring that pupils remain safe while learning, and local schools are expected to review their security measures in light of these events.

The Co-op Academy trust operates several schools in the region, and these incidents serve as a reminder of the vigilance needed to protect students. Oldham parents are encouraged to stay informed and cooperate with school protocols to maintain a secure environment.