A 16-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of making threats to kill after a school was plunged into a lockdown by armed police has been bailed.

The boy was arrested at his home on Monday (March 18) evening on suspicion of making threats against two pupils at St Hild’s CoE School in Hartlepool, and malicious communications.

Cleveland Police said: “The 16-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of threats for kill and malicious communications, has been released on conditional bail whilst investigations continue.”

The Northern Echo: Armed police were seen at the school.Armed police were seen at the school. (Image: TERRY BLACKBURN)

The academy was locked down at the end of the school day with pupils kept inside while gun-toting officers stood guard at the gates.

Police previously said threats had been made against two pupils at the school and that the 16-year-old had been arrested at his home.

Huge crowds of concerned parents gathered outside St Hild’s while the school posted updates on social media.

The school was open as normal on Tuesday despite the lockdown not lifting until 5pm on Monday. Students were released year group by year group after the lockdown lifted.

The Northern Echo: There was a heavy police presence at school in the King Oswy area of Hartlepool.There was a heavy police presence at school in the King Oswy area of Hartlepool. (Image: TERRY BLACKBURN)

In a letter to parents the school said psychological support would be available to students.

It said: “St Hild’s implemented a temporary lockdown in response to a potential safety concern brought to our attention. We acted swiftly alongside Cleveland Police, following established protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils and staff.

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“The safety of our school community is paramount, and we will always take decisive action to uphold it. We are pleased to inform everyone that the situation has been resolved.

“We extend our sincere gratitude to parents and carers for their understanding during this disruption. We also commend our school staff for their professional handling of the situation, our pupils for their exemplary behaviour under the circumstances, and Cleveland Police and local authorities for their swift and calm response. Finally, we thank our entire school community for their unwavering support.

“To ensure everyone feels comfortable returning to school, additional support will be available within the building over the next few days.”