- More than 700 knife offences, including threats and attacks, were recorded in schools across England and Wales in 2025, highlighting a significant knife crisis.
- Shockingly, pupils as young as seven were among those caught with blades, with 33 suspects aged 10 or under identified by police forces.
- Caroline Willgoose, whose son was murdered by another pupil, described the situation as an 'emergency' and called for the widespread installation of metal detectors in schools.
- While school leaders emphasise the need for a society-wide response and highlight budget limitations, Tory shadow ministers advocate a 'zero tolerance' approach, suggesting excluded pupils be sent to Pupil Referral Units.
- The figures emerge as a new National Knife Crime Centre opens in London to combat online weapon sales, with the government stating efforts are underway to reduce knife crime.
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