A SCHOOL was forced to close suddenly after police were called when a pupil received threats on social media. 

Tabor Academy, in Panfield Lane, Braintree, made the decision to close early yesterday after a pupil received the communication.

Parents were contacted just after 2pm to let them know the school would be closing at 2.30pm.

Police were called to the school and advised it to close early and many parents saw multiple police vehicles at the site.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We received a call shortly before midday (Wednesday February 22) reporting threats made towards a teenage boy.

“Officers have responded and spoken to the boy in person.

“We have recorded an offence of malicious communications and our enquiries are ongoing.”

The school has reassured parents the issue is being dealt with and it will continue to work with police to minimise any future risks to children, staff and families.

Anita Johnson, chief executive officer of the Loxford School Trust said: “Tabor Academy closed early due to a threat made to a pupil through social media and police responded and attended the school.

“I am grateful for parental support and understanding regarding this matter and our response to the very clear police direction that day.

“Having spoken with police officers, their advice and good news for us all now is that the matter is being dealt with.

“I would wish to support the officers responsible in taking this precautionary measure, difficult as it was for us all, families and school.

“Please be assured that we continue to work closely with the police and communities on all matters but particularly in terms of minimising any element of risk to our children, staff and families.

“Our business is the care of our children, school improvement and securing high standards of education with all our families. We continue to work on this together.

“This is a timely opportunity to remind parents of their child’s use of social media.”