A primary school in a major UK city was placed into temporary lockdown with children kept indoors following a nearby “incident”. In a notice to parents and carers Radcliffe Primary School in Manchester said an incident had taken place outisde and staff were awaiting direction from the police before opening the school gates.

The school reassured parents that pupils remained safe and were “enjoying poetry assembly” while the matter was being dealt with. Parents were informed about the events through the school’s communication system shortly after 3pm today, September 18. The school did not provide further details about the nature of the incident.

The message said: “Due to an incident that has happened outside of school, we are waiting to take direction from the police before opening the school gates.

“All the children are currently happy and settled, enjoying poetry assembly. Please try not to worry.

“We will keep you updated with any information, as soon as we know anything.”

A Radcliffe Primary School spokesperson confirmed they were placed into temporary lockdown following discussions with the police.

The primary school praised the children for their calmess throughout the situation.

A spokesperson for the primary school said: “Earlier today the school became aware of an incident happening in the community.

“As a precautionary measure, and after discussion with police, the school went into a temporary lockdown.

“Everything inside the school building continued as normal and the children should be praised for the calm way they dealt with the situation.