Cwmcarn High School 'murder plot' teens excluded

Two schoolgirls at the centre of an alleged murder plot against a teacher have been permanently excluded.

It is understood maths teacher Alison Cray was the target of the alleged plot at Cwmcarn School, Caerphilly county.

Gwent Police said the teenagers, aged 14 and 15, were arrested at the School on Thursday on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder, following concerns about their behaviour.

Both girls have been released on bail pending further inquiries until June.

A Caerphilly council spokesman said: "We can confirm that the two pupils have been issued with permanent exclusions and we are currently assessing their needs before recommending appropriate educational provision for each of the girls."

Plot

The chair of governors at the school said everyone responded swiftly when concerns were first raised.

Maths teacher Alison Cray: "It was all handled before it got to me"

Chair of governors Gary Thomas said in a letter posted on the school website: "I can confirm that the concerns were also reported to the governing body and we are delighted with the way in which everyone responded swiftly.

"There are clear measures, policies and protocols in place to ensure that everyone is safe and everyone knows how to report any concerns.

"I am very proud of the school and particularly the way in which the pupils are educated to be responsible and report any concerns immediately."

Ms Cray, 46, has said she has worked as normal since the alleged incident which was "all handled before it got to me".

Gwent Police officers were called just before lunchtime on Thursday.

Police said a 15-year-old pupil from Newbridge was arrested on suspicion of threats to kill, possession of a bladed article on school premises and conspiracy to commit murder.

The 14-year-old girl from Risca was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder.