Stab-proof school uniforms requested

An Essex company has started producing Kevlar-lined school jumpers and blazers after requests from parents.

The company, which has previously produced stab-proof hooded jumpers, is charging from £60 to line uniforms with knife-resistant Kevlar. The same process on blazers can cost up to £130.

The company, Bladerunner, which is based in Romford, claims that it began the uniform modification after requests from parents in the area, who are concerned by the risk of knife crime within schools. Seven teenagers have been fatally stabbed in London this year in the space of two months.

“Stabbings in schools are exceptionally rare. This is a commercial organisation scaremongering to sell its products,” said Jim Knight, Department for Chidren, Schools and Families minister.

Alf Hitchcock of ACPO called the modified uniforms “an extraordinary step”. He said: “The reality is that crimes involving knives are proportionately very low. But we do recognise that parents have the fear of crime and some feel that they need to take these steps.”

Teachers are now also calling for the provision of stab-proof vests to ensure their safety during student searches. Under new laws, teachers are able to forcibly search students who are suspected of carrying dangerous weapons.