We would like to make you aware that we have been alerted to social media posts encouraging young people from a number of local schools to gather in Woolwich town centre this afternoon.

In response, the Metropolitan Police have implemented a Section 35 Dispersal Order covering Woolwich from 2.00pm until midnight today. Police have advised that this is primarily a preventative measure to help officers address any potential anti-social behaviour should it occur.

While this may prove to be unfounded, we want to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our students by making families aware and sharing some precautionary advice.

We ask parents and carers to support us by reminding their child to:

• Travel directly home after school and avoid unnecessary stops in Woolwich town centre.
• Avoid gathering in the areas of Powis Street, Beresford Square, General Gordon Square and Thomas Street this afternoon and evening.
• Not attend any gatherings promoted through social media.
• If changing buses in Woolwich, use bus stops on Plumstead Road where possible, ideally around the Plumstead railway station area, to minimise travel through the town centre.
• Keep in contact with parents or carers during their journey home so that you know where they are and can ensure they have arrived safely.

Please also take the opportunity to discuss responsible social media use with your child. Information shared online can often be inaccurate, exaggerated or lack important context, and young people should avoid engaging with or sharing content that may encourage unsafe behaviour.

We will continue to work closely with the police and local authority throughout the afternoon and evening. School staff will also be monitoring and patrolling local areas as appropriate to support the safety of our students.

For our sixth form students who finish earlier in the day, we encourage them to leave the local area promptly and travel directly home rather than remaining in town centres or meeting points.

Thank you for your continued support and cooperation.