Ellesmere College lockdown caused by ‘non-compliant student’

Ellesmere College is southwest of Christchurch.

Ellesmere College in Canterbury went into lockdown on Monday afternoon, but the school says social media reports of a knife-wielding student were “unfounded”.

Principal Antony French, speaking on behalf of the school board, confirmed the school’s “stay in place” order was initiated to ensure the safety of students and staff.

“We had an elevated and non-compliant student,” French said.

“Speculation and rumours of the student possibly having a knife that were posted on social media are unfounded and the situation was resolved without further incident.

“Erring on the side of caution was a deliberate decision. This time with a satisfactory outcome.”

He did not offer any further details.

A police spokesperson confirmed a report was made to police just before 2pm “that a person was in possession of a weapon (not a firearm)”.

“Police attended, made inquiries, and determined this report was incorrect.”

While misinformation swirled on social media, there was also disappointment that parents were only notified of the lockdown when it was lifted.

One parent posted: “Unfortunately a few of us had read on [Facebook] or heard through the grapevine, so had a worrying wee time while we waited to hear anything official from the school”.

The school has a cellphone ban but it is understood some students managed to message parents to alert them of the situation, prompting some to contact the school office.

- LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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