Jamie Sansom, the maths teacher who was stabbed in Tewkesbury Academy, has denied allegations that he was intervening in a fight between students during the incident. Sansom was attacked in a corridor at the school on Monday morning, and he has since been discharged from the hospital in stable condition.
Addressing the circulating misinformation surrounding the incident, Sansom clarified that it was “simply not true” to suggest that he was intervening in a fight between students. He stated that, in his view, there was no direct threat faced by Tewkesbury students. His statement aims to set the record straight and provide accurate information about the incident.
Expressing his gratitude, Sansom thanked the hospital staff at Gloucester Royal and the police for their care and support during his recovery. He also expressed his appreciation for the messages of support he received, which he described as a “big boost” during this challenging time.
With more than 100 messages of support, Sansom emphasized that the outpouring of support from colleagues and parents at Tewkesbury Academy meant a great deal to him. He expressed his intention to personally visit the school once he is well enough to thank everyone for their support.
Sansom also expressed his hope to return to the classroom before the summer break, pending medical clearance. As he is scheduled to move to a new school at the end of the year, he expressed his desire to bid farewell to his students and colleagues at Tewkesbury Academy before moving on.
Tewkesbury Academy, part of the Cabot Learning Federation, is a state secondary school catering to 11 to 18-year-olds. The incident prompted a lockdown at the academy, and neighbouring schools were also asked to close their doors as a precautionary measure. Assistant Chief Constable Richard Ocone of Gloucestershire Police assured the public of an increased police presence at the school to provide reassurance in the coming days.
The investigation into the incident continues, with a teenage boy remaining in custody on suspicion of attempted murder. The recovery and well-being of Jamie Sansom, as well as the safety of all students, remain paramount as the school community moves forward from this distressing event.
