Reading College stabbing: Armed Police lock down campus after teen attacked — What really happened in Berkshire?

A shocking incident unfolded on Thursday afternoon at Reading College in Berkshire, England, when a student was injured in an alleged stabbing, prompting a swift armed police response and a temporary campus lockdown.

According to Thames Valley Police, one person has been arrested in connection with the attack, while the injured boy is being treated in hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

The disturbing event, which took place on Kings Road, sparked widespread concern among parents and students as officers and emergency services flooded the scene.

Armed Police Swarm Reading College After Reported Stabbing

Reports of a stabbing emerged around midday, with witnesses describing scenes of chaos as armed police and emergency crews responded to the incident.

Images shared online showed a large police presence outside the Reading College campus, with officers urging the public to avoid the area while the situation was brought under control.

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police confirmed:

“We are aware of an assault with injury in Kings Road, Reading. A boy has sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment. Officers have made an arrest in connection with this incident.”

Police emphasized that, contrary to early reports, the event was not classified as a major incident, though search operations and a visible police presence continued in the area for several hours.

Reading College Confirms Student Injured, Safety Measures Activated

An automated message on the college’s phone line confirmed that a student had sustained injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening.

“Their family have been informed. The police have been notified and are present. Please be reassured that all actions have been taken to ensure students’ safety,” the statement read.

Witnesses said the college went into lockdown, with alarms sounding across classrooms and staff instructing students to shelter under desks while police secured the area.

A message reportedly displayed on computers inside the building read:

“Please enter lockdown. This is not a drill. Please secure your rooms and keep students in.”

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Witnesses Describe Panic and Lockdown Inside the Campus

Multiple students described the terrifying moments following the attack. One student told local media:

“At lunch someone set up a firecracker, and then someone got stabbed. We were told to go for lockdown, lying under desks after hearing the alarm.”

Another witness said all students were ordered to remain indoors as officers combed the grounds.

Social media users also reported hearing sirens and seeing armed police outside the college gates, while parents rushed to contact loved ones amid confusion and fear.

Police Urge Calm as Investigation Continues

Authorities confirmed that an arrest had been made and that the victim’s condition is stable. Officers remained at the scene through the afternoon, reassuring the community and students that the situation was under control.

Thames Valley Police encouraged anyone with information, photos, or videos related to the event to come forward as part of the ongoing investigation.

“If you’re worried or have any questions, please feel free to speak to officers in the area,” police said in their latest update.

The college has since reopened under police supervision, with counselors made available to support affected students and staff.

FAQ: Reading College Stabbing and Police Response

Q1: What happened at Reading College?

A: A student was injured in an alleged stabbing incident at Reading College on Kings Road, Berkshire. Police have since made one arrest.

Q2: When did the incident occur?

A: The attack took place on Thursday, November 6, 2025, prompting a swift lockdown and emergency response.

Q3: How serious are the victim’s injuries?

A: Police confirmed the boy’s injuries are not life-threatening, and he is currently receiving treatment in hospital.

Q4: Was the college placed under lockdown?

A: Yes, Reading College went into a temporary lockdown to protect students and staff while police secured the area.

Q5: Did police confirm this as a major incident?

A: No, Thames Valley Police stated the situation was not categorized as a major incident, though armed officers were deployed.

Q6: Has anyone been arrested?

A: Yes, police confirmed that one person has been arrested in connection with the assault.

Q7: Were other students injured?

A: No additional injuries were reported; the incident involved a single victim.

Q8: What have witnesses said about the event?

A: Witnesses described panic and lockdown procedures, with some students told to hide under desks during the police response.

Q9: What safety measures did Reading College take?

A: The college immediately triggered emergency lockdown protocols and notified students’ families.

Q10: What should the public do now?

A: Police have advised the public to avoid the Kings Road area and to contact authorities with any relevant information.