Why it matters: The incident demonstrated how the local community rallied together to support students and staff during an emergency, with multiple organisations opening their doors to provide warmth, refreshments and facilities.
The details: At around 11:45 on Tuesday, a staff member was alerted to a potential security threat, which later turned out to be a hoax. The college's incident management group immediately implemented rigorous safety procedures, evacuating all students and staff and alerting police.
Several organisations stepped up to help:
Pinewood Hall and Parish Council opened their doors to offer warmth, cups of tea and food
St Francis Church and Shepherd Drive Baptist Church provided support
The local doctor's surgery and Co-Op also offered assistance
Chestnut Tree Farm pub provided warm spaces and toilet facilities for those waiting for transportation
Bus and taxi companies adjusted their schedules
What they're saying: Dr Nikos Savvas, CEO of Eastern Education Group, said: "I'd like to thank all the brilliant students and staff at One Sixth Form College and Eastern Education Group for the calm and professional manner in which they responded to a situation that turned out to be a hoax."
He added: "As the situation that we took extremely seriously developed, it was incredibly heartwarming to see so many of our friends and neighbours stand up to support staff and students as the situation unfolded."
The big picture: Police were called to the scene at 11:53 and conducted a thorough search of the site. Several police cars attended, with police tape visible around the campus. Road closures were put in place around the college between the A1214/London Road roundabout junction with Tesco Copdock and the A1071 junction. All scenes were stood down by Tuesday evening.
What's next: The building is now fully opened and safe, with the incident being investigated by authorities. Additional help, advice and guidance will be offered to anyone who was affected by the evacuation via college student support teams.
The bottom line: A hoax security threat that disrupted learning for hundreds of students revealed the strength of community spirit in Ipswich, as neighbours, churches and businesses came together to support young people during an unsettling incident.
