The principal of a North Canterbury school where a 13-year-old student was attacked by another student is reassuring the community the matter is being taken seriously.
Emergency services were called to Oxford Area School on Bay Road at 2.16pm after a student was violently assaulted.
A police spokesperson told chrislynchmedia.com officers were notified shortly before 2pm that a student had been assaulted by another student on school grounds.
A St John spokesperson said they responded with an ambulance, a helicopter, and a rapid response vehicle.
“One patient was assessed at the scene and transported to Christchurch Hospital in a moderate condition by ambulance,” he said.
Fire and Emergency crews also responded. Nearby residents reported a large emergency presence in the area throughout the afternoon.
Oxford Area School Principal Mike Hart issued a statement following the incident.
“We want to inform our school community that an incident occurred at school today, and emergency services were called to assist. A student was transported to hospital by ambulance in a moderate condition.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt support are with the student and their whānau during this time.
“We know this may be unsettling, and we are doing everything we can to ensure the wellbeing of all involved.
“Please be assured that we are following all appropriate procedures as we work through what has happened, and we are committed to keeping our community informed as needed.
“If you have any concerns or questions, we encourage you to contact the school directly,” Hart said.
Several parents of current and former students have also raised concerns about the school’s handling of previous incidents, with some alleging that serious matters, in the past, were not adequately addressed.
The Ministry of Education said it had not been made aware of the incident when first contacted by Chris Lynch Media.
A spokesperson said they would be following up and expected to release more information on the situation tomorrow.
If you know more, email [email protected] in confidence.
