Talbot House Prep School has two 'bomb scares' in two months

Talbot House Preparatory School in Firs Glen Road, Winton, had ‘bomb scares’ in October, as well as the one we reported late last month on November 30. 

The first scare that has been revealed, on October 17, was not made public, but it is understood parents were notified by staff about the incident. 

However, nothing of concern was found at the school, which charges up to £9,939 per year to attend. 

Fire service and police at the school in November (Image: Daily Echo)

A spokesman for Dorset Police indicated officers are keeping an open mind that the two incidents could be linked. 

He said: “Dorset Police received a report at around 1pm on Tuesday 17 October 2023 regarding a security threat made to a school in the Winton area of Bournemouth.

Read more: Police called to 'bomb scare' at Winton school

“School staff made the decision to evacuate pupils and officers attended to conduct a thorough search of the premises as a precaution.  

“Nothing of concern was located. 

“Our enquiries into the latest incident remain ongoing and while we are considering the possibility that these incidents may be linked, that has not been confirmed at this time.” 

Last month a large 999 response was seen outside the school as young pupils were evacuated and taken home by concerned parents. 

Multiple police officers, fire engines and ambulances were seen on standby and searching the property following the latest scare last month. 

Residents in the surrounding area told the Echo they were initially worried, but that had died down once it became clear no bombs were found. 

Sniffer dogs were also seen searching the grounds. 

The school, which has been rated ‘good’ by Ofsted in its last inspection in 2011, has been approached for a comment multiple times since November. 

The Echo contacted the school but it had not responded at the time of publication. 

The school has been open since 1969, according to Ofsted, and caters for pupils aged between three and 11.