Former Birmingham City footballer Curtis Woodhouse has launched a scathing criticism of his son's school after the youngster received detention for contacting his father during a terrifying lockdown incident.
The Lockdown Ordeal
Howden School in Yorkshire was placed into lockdown on Friday, November 14 after reports suggested an intruder had entered the premises. Pupils were instructed to barricade themselves in classrooms using metal bars during the alarming situation that left many children frightened.
Woodhouse, who played for Birmingham City FC between 2001 and 2003, described receiving "the call today no parent ever wants" when his son contacted him during the incident. The 45-year-old former professional footballer revealed his son used his mobile phone to inform him about the unfolding situation and to ask when he would arrive to collect him.
Detention Decision Sparks Outrage
Despite the traumatic experience, Woodhouse's son was subsequently given detention for using his phone during the lockdown procedure. The former sports star expressed his fury on social media platform X, stating: "He's got a detention for using his phone after it was done, he was calling and texting me asking how long I was going to be and he's got a detention!"
Woodhouse didn't hold back in his criticism of the school's decision, adding: "What d******* makes a decision like that! The kid was petrified!" He described collecting his son from school and witnessing the emotional impact on children, noting that some were "hysterical and really really upset" and appeared to have "been through the mill."
School's Response and Aftermath
In their official statement, Howden School confirmed that the lockdown was initiated as a precaution after reports of a possible intruder on site. The school emphasised that student safety remained their "highest priority" and that they immediately enacted lockdown protocols while contacting the police.
Following a thorough search by authorities and internal checks, the school identified that the reported intruder was actually a student at Howden School, and the incident was deemed a "false alarm." The school praised students for their "exemplary" conduct during the lockdown and stated that senior staff had visited classes to reassure pupils and provide support.
Woodhouse confirmed that although everyone was physically safe, the emotional toll on the children was significant. He emphasised: "Our kids shouldn't have to live in a world like this," highlighting the broader concerns about school safety procedures and their impact on young people's wellbeing.