A 16-year-old boy has admitted to possessing a blade without lawful authority in connection with a stabbing incident at Thorpe St Andrew High School in March. The defendant pleaded not guilty to attempted murder during a hearing at Norwich Crown Court on June 24, 2026.
Armed police were dispatched to the school, located on the outskirts of Norwich in Norfolk, on March 11 following reports that a 15-year-old girl had been stabbed in the back. The school was placed on lockdown for nearly three hours, with teachers reportedly barricading classroom doors. Scores of anxious parents gathered outside the school awaiting information.
The alleged victim was taken to a hospital and was discharged the following day, described as being in good condition. She cannot be named for legal reasons.
The boy, who also cannot be named, appeared via video link at Norwich Crown Court. He admitted to having a kitchen knife without lawful authority. He remains in custody at a youth detention center and is scheduled to face trial on October 5.
Prosecutor Josephine Jones stated at a previous hearing at Norwich Magistrates Court that CCTV footage from a toilet area showed a male dressed entirely in black, wearing a black mask, and carrying a "carving knife with a lengthy blade." The prosecutor added that the victim had been stabbed in the back and that the defendant allegedly fled the scene but was arrested nearby by police.
Police were called to the school at 10:24 a.m. on the day of the incident. The school issued a statement acknowledging the distress of the situation and commending the calm response of staff and students. The statement also confirmed the injured student's release from the hospital and wished her a quick recovery. The school noted that support measures would be provided to students and families.
A case management hearing is scheduled for September 1 at the Crown Court.