Stoke High School, in Ipswich, shuts after threat made

An Ipswich high school has closed today due to an ‘active threat’ made against it.

Suffolk Police said it was called to Stoke High School Ormiston Academy at 7.20am following reports of malicious communication being sent to it.

An investigation is ongoing, although officers believed the incident was a hoax.

Acting Inspector Colin Clack said: “Officers are at the scene, however we ask the public not to be alarmed. We are there to ensure public safety and provide reassurance to the school and local community.”

In a letter sent to parents, Karen Baldwin, Stoke High School’s principal, said it would be shut today while it works with authorities to assess the situation.

She said: “We treat every situation with the utmost caution and are following the necessary procedures in line with our safety protocols, as the health and safety of our students and staff remains our top priority.

“We are working closely with police and relevant authorities to support the investigation and ensure all safety procedures are followed.”

Ormiston Academy Trust has been approached for comment.