Parents warned as sinister emails spark chaos across Liverpool schools
A string of schools in Liverpool and Merseyside have been rattled by a ‘hoax threat’ bomb scare, forcing closures and lockdowns on Monday, March 9.
LIPA School closes amid credible threat fears
LIPA School in Liverpool city centre shut its doors after a bomb and harm threats were emailed to the arts institute. Although many such messages tend to be hoaxes, the school said “heightened media attention” makes the threat a “credible risk”.
Headteacher Claire McKendrick told worried parents: “Safety and well-being of pupils and staff must always come first. We advise families not to enter the building until it is safe.”
Police officers were seen inside the school supporting investigations.
Chesterfield High goes into lockdown before resuming lessons
In Crosby, Chesterfield High School confirmed it received a malicious email in the early hours of Monday. The school entered a temporary lockdown following national safety protocols and alerted emergency services.
Chief Inspector Phil Thompson reassured parents: “Based on assessed information, there has been no need for schools to close.” Once police declared the threats not credible, Chesterfield lifted the lockdown, and normal teaching resumed.
“We would like to thank our staff and pupils for their impeccable behaviour during this.” – Chesterfield High School
Concerns rise as schools remain on alert
Authorities continue to investigate the source of the hoax emails. Parents are urged to report any information to Merseyside Police via 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
LIPA, unrelated to Paul McCartney’s arts institute of the same name, is set to close this summer after years of financial struggles, a poor Ofsted report, and declining pupil numbers.
Chesterfield High School, home to around 1,400 students, faces no such closure but remains vigilant amid growing safety concerns.
