Twynham Primary School Praises Community Resilience as Three-Day Police Cordon Continues

Jennifer Hunter, headteacher of Twynham Primary School in Christchurch, has commended the community's support following a three-day police cordon established near the school after a suspected explosive device and firearms were discovered at an address in Suffolk Avenue. The incident began on Monday, June 14, when Dorset Police received a report of the suspected explosive device at the residential location, prompting the evacuation of nearby residents and the establishment of a 100-metre exclusion zone. Three individuals—a man and woman in their 60s and a man in his 30s—were arrested in connection with the incident.

Despite the disruption, the school remained open as it was situated outside the exclusion zone perimeter. Mrs. Hunter highlighted the school's commitment to maintaining educational continuity, noting that attendance exceeded 97 per cent on the day following the initial discovery, demonstrating strong parental confidence in the school's safety measures. She praised the collaborative response from parents, staff, and police, stating: "While the last few days have not been typical, they really have shown the strength of our community. Our children have continued to smile, the team here have been brilliant and our parents couldn't have been more supportive."

Police confirmed that the major incident is not being treated as terrorism-related, though investigations and property searches continue. Residents were displaced overnight, with some required to remain away from their homes through June 16 and June 17, permitted only to collect essential items. The school implemented supportive measures including free after-school provision for children who normally walk to school, and staff showed flexibility with pick-up and drop-off times. Police also visited the school to reassure children through informal engagement, which Mrs. Hunter credited with having a positive impact on pupils.

Police maintained constant communication with school officials throughout the incident. Mrs. Hunter emphasised the importance of this liaison, noting: "The fact that our attendance was over 97 per cent yesterday is just one sign that our collective efforts are working." Dorset Police indicated that the cordon would remain in place until searches at the property were concluded, with the timeline extending into at least June 17.