Knives discovered inside a school yesterday have prompted a head teacher’s letter to allay parents’ concerns.

The blades were found inside a pupil’s bag at Folkestone Academy and handed to the police, sparking an ongoing probe into who was responsible.

No pupils were injured or threatened at the school in Academy Lane.

“I am writing to let you know that we had a situation at the Academy in which sharp implements were brought into school.

“There was no intent at any time to cause harm or injury to any other person,” wrote Principal Colin Boxal.

Pupils carrying weapons inside the school will face permanent exclusion he added.

The letter continues: “We take the safety of our pupils extremely seriously at Folkestone Academy and we have made our expectations very clear to everyone. Sanctions continue to be applied, including exclusion, where behaviour is having a negative effect on safety and learning.”

The two knives, described as “small” by a spokesman, were seized quickly and handed to an onsite Police Community Support Officer.

The school spokesman added: " It’s not appropriate for us to discuss individual pupils, and this is a police matter, so we are unable to provide further detail.”

Kent Police has been contacted for comment.

Mr Boxal called on parents to work closely with the school and voice concerns to him directly instead of venting on social media.

“We take the safety of our pupils extremely seriously at Folkestone Academy and we have made our expectations very clear to everyone" - Colin Boxal

“I also know that reinforcing for our students that we are here to give them successful futures relies on great relationships with parents and I encourage you to speak to me and meet me so that together we can support the school on its journey to being one of the best in the South,” he said.

He added: “I know that in the past, some parents have felt their only outlet for concerns is social media but I am very keen that we start to engage more constructively and openly with all parents.”

Mr Boxal and other school leaders will hold open meetings with parents each Monday and Tuesday morning during school time to improve communication.

Parents are asked to inform reception if they intend to participate.

He added: “I look forward to meeting you and working with you in the coming weeks and months.”

Police confirmed they were made aware of a knife found on school property at 9.15am at the school on January 26.

A spokesman said: "Officers carried out enquiries into the circumstances and discovered two knives, which were seized.

"The matter is now being dealt with by the school."