A school has issued a statement following a “shocking incident” involving a student who had to be taken to hospital.

Paramedics from the North West Ambulance Service were called to West Lakes Academy in Egremont this morning.

A student was then taken to the West Cumberland Hospital for treatment.

A statement published by the school this evening said: “As you are aware, there has sadly been an incident at the academy today involving an individual student.

“I want to let you know that that the student involved is currently receiving support from trained professionals.

“The incident was unprecedented, the first of its kind in over a decade and as such has been understandably difficult for both students and staff to deal with.

“Having said that, I am immensely impressed with the maturity with which students have conducted themselves.

“I also wish to take this opportunity to thank staff for the way they responded to ensure that everyone in the academy was safe and supported.

“The student involved in the incident was supported instantly by trained first aiders who were in the area when the event happened. The support these staff gave was exceptional.

“Paramedics were very quickly on the scene and the student was taken for further assessment at hospital.

“This is a shocking incident for all at the academy and it cannot be underestimated the impact this has had on students, staff and the wider community.

“It is natural that people feel shaken by today’s events. The academy will do all it can to support students and staff in processing today’s events.”

The statement then signposted those affected to a number of support services available, including the mental health charity, Mind.

READ MORE: Emergency services called to incident at West Lakes Academy