Kent schools receive hoax threats, police investigate
Anonymous calls made to two educational institutions in east Kent are part of a wider national pattern.
Incident → evidence → outcomeTwo schools in east Kent received anonymous hoax threat calls on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. The schools understood to have been targeted were Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham and Herne Bay High School. Kent Police confirmed that patrols attended the schools and are in contact with staff. The force stated the calls are being treated as hoaxes and are currently under investigation.
A spokesperson for Kent Police said: "On Tuesday 20 October 2026, Kent Police received reports that two schools in east Kent had anonymous phone calls making threats. Patrols attended and are in contact with staff. The calls are being treated as a hoax and are being investigated."
Wider Pattern of Incidents
These incidents in Kent are understood to be part of a wider pattern of hoax threats made to schools across the United Kingdom. Similar events have been reported in Scotland and Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland, over 150 schools reportedly received bomb threats that were not considered viable. Police Scotland also confirmed receiving more than 300 calls following threatening messages sent to schools in Scotland. Enquiries into the Kent incidents are ongoing.
Questions this report answers
01What happened at the two Kent schools?
Two schools in east Kent received anonymous hoax threat calls on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. The schools understood to have been targeted were Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham and Herne Bay High School. Kent Police confirmed the calls are being treated as hoaxes and are under investigation.
02Which schools were affected?
The schools understood to have received the anonymous hoax threat calls were Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School, located in Faversham, and Herne Bay High School. Kent Police confirmed patrols attended and are in contact with staff at these institutions.
03Are these incidents isolated?
No, the incidents in east Kent are understood to be part of a wider pattern of hoax threats made to schools across the United Kingdom. Similar reports have emerged from Scotland and Northern Ireland, involving a significant number of schools.
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