Important Please Read
Toy guns and Firearms at School
Kia ora e te whānau,
You may have read or seen in the news yesterday that a school in Cambridge went into lockdown when police were notified of a young person in possession of a BB gun. Fortunately, the matter was able to be resolved and nothing serious happened to anyone.
Recently we had our own incident where a toy BB gun (imitation firearm) was brought to school, used between friends, and then confiscated by a staff member. Again, fortunately, the situation was able to be managed promptly and safely by staff and did not require police intervention, although they were notified of the incident (as directed to me by the Ministry of Education).
This is not always the case in other schools across the country, and around the world. Firearms are dangerous if not used safely and for their intended purpose.
Firearms of any description are not allowed at school. This includes toys, imitations or replicas.
Our school policy for Firearms states clearly that we do not allow:
Student involvement with firearms or airguns on or off the school premises for school-related events and/or activities.
Firearms/airguns or ammunition on the school grounds at any time.
Imitation guns at school.
It is an offence to carry an imitation firearm without a lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose (Arms Act 1983 46). The Ministry Guidelines indicate that imitation firearms include toy guns.
We will continue to educate our students about the seriousness of such incidences, and also the safety issues with all types of firearms. Having your own conversations at home with your child will further support them and us to maintain everyone’s safety.
Thank you for your ongoing support in protecting our students, kura, and community.
Ngā mihi,
Mrs. Tina Takimoana
Acting Principal