Perth school students accused of plotting to kill teacher appear in court
A Perth student who allegedly stabbed her teacher has briefly appeared in court, accused of plotting with another teenager to kill the woman.
The 14-year-old girl was allegedly handed a knife by her 13-year-old friend before entering Willetton Senior High School about 11am Monday and stabbing her teacher, a woman aged in her 50s.
The student then fled the school and was arrested Monday evening.
A WA Police spokeswoman alleged the two students had plotted to kill the year 8 co-ordinator during numerous online conversations with one another in the two weeks preceding the attack.
“Around 11.10am, the 14-year-old student allegedly used that knife to stab a female teacher before running from the school,” she said.
“The victim received a one centimetre wound in the area of her left armpit and was conveyed to Fiona Stanley Hospital for treatment.
“On police arrival, the 13-year-old student was taken into custody and a search commenced for the 14-year-old student who was located around 6.50pm on foot in Willetton and taken into custody by police.”
Both students have been charged with attempting to unlawfully kill.
The 13 year old appeared in the Perth Children’s Court still dressed in her school uniform on Tuesday.
She was described as polite and anxious but unwilling to speak to a court counsellor.
Magistrate Andree Horrigan stood the matter down so the student could undergo a mental health assessment.
Her defence lawyer Sean O’Sullivan said he did not see a mental health problem with his client, however the judge insisted as she would like a report.
The 14-year-old girl was also sent for a mental health assessment. She is being represented by lawyer Tony Elliott.
The stabbing occurred in the student services block, an area where people go for support and counselling.
Teachers were advised to lock the doors of their classrooms and remained in lockdown for around 30 minutes after the incident.
Willetton SHS principal Trevor Hunter sent parents and carers an email addressing the stabbing about four hours later, just before school ended.
“The incident occurred at recess and as a precaution all students were kept in their classrooms for a brief period,” the email read.
“The school and administration staff acted immediately to ensure students were kept away from the situation.
“At no time were any students in danger.”
Mr Hunter told parents and carers that if their child needed any additional support from the school, to contact him personally or any other member of the administrative staff.
State School Teachers’ Union of WA president Pat Byrne said the incident was a reminder of the dangers teachers faced and the need for constant improvements on safety in schools.
“The SSTUWA is deeply disturbed by the incident at Willetton Senior High School,” she said.
“Every teacher should be able to go to work confident that they will be safe from harm.
“The union will liaise closely with the Department of Education to ensure all staff at the school get every support they need during this traumatic time.”
The teacher has been discharged from hospital.
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