A 13-year-old boy has been charged with attempted murder following a stabbing at Kingsbury High School in north-west London, where the attack was allegedly filmed on his mobile phone.
Two pupils, aged 12 and 13, were seriously injured during the incident, which took place at around 12.40pm. One victim required surgery after suffering spinal injuries, while the other sustained wounds to the neck. Both are now in a stable condition and their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Prosecutors said the suspect allegedly sprayed a pupil with a substance believed to be insect spray before attacking two others with a kitchen knife. The court was told that the incident was recorded by the defendant during the attack.
The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where he was remanded in custody.
Katherine Selby, prosecuting, said police had recovered CCTV footage showing the suspect holding a knife. She said he first sprayed a pupil in a corridor before entering a classroom and launching what was described as an unprovoked attack.
One victim suffered multiple stab wounds, as well as injuries to the spine, neck and hands. The attack took place in front of a teacher and other pupils, who were said to have sheltered in fear.
The teenager has been charged with two counts of attempted murder, possession of a bladed article on school premises, and administering a noxious substance.
A spokesperson for the Crown Prosecution Service said there was sufficient evidence to bring the case to court and reminded the public not to share material that could prejudice proceedings.
Detective Chief Superintendent Helen Flanagan, from Counter Terrorism Policing London, said the investigation was ongoing and that officers were supporting the victims, their families, and the wider school community.
She said the suspect was later detained near a mosque in north-west London, adding that police did not believe he had any connection to the building. The incident has not been treated as terrorism.
Police have searched several premises and are interviewing up to 40 witnesses as part of the inquiry.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as an “appalling attack” and said his thoughts were with the injured children and their families.
The school was evacuated after a fire alarm was triggered, and pupils were sent home. In a statement, school leaders said the situation was under control and that they were working closely with the authorities.
Some parents said their children were fearful about returning to school, while community groups reported ongoing concerns among pupils and families.