A college principal has praised the actions of its staff after a student was stabbed in broad daylight. 

On the morning of February 21, an 18-year-old man was stabbed as he walked near New City College's Ardleigh Green campus. 

A police spokesperson said officers and the London Ambulance Service attended Ardleigh Green Road, with the young man taken to hospital. His condition is now stable, according to the college.

A Section 60 stop and search order was authorised for the whole Ardleigh Green area until midnight that same day. Police say enquiries continue and no arrests have been made. 

In a previous statement, the college said it was “devastated” by the incident. 

Now, it has provided an update, in which it praised staff for supporting the young man after he was assisted back to the college by his friends. 

The principal of New City College's Havering campuses, Janet Smith, said: “Thankfully, our student is stable and being cared for in hospital, thanks to the rapid first aid action taken by members of our staff. I am immensely proud of them. In a highly tense situation, they were incredibly calm and their actions and care undoubtedly helped to save the student’s life.  

“This incident has had a profound impact on all of us and we are hoping our student will make a swift recovery. 

“Making students feel safe and supported in college is part of our daily work. It is humbling to be reminded that when a student was in crisis, they knew the college was a place of safety where there would be staff to help.  

“We are urging the wider community to come together to support us in the important work we do with young people. We work tirelessly to raise aspirations, support, provide equal opportunity, educate and prepare young people for their futures.  

“We believe this is key in tackling the current challenges we all face in our community.” 

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The statement also confirmed that the college was reopened the day following the incident. 

Anyone with information at this early stage is asked to call the police on 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD 2318/21Feb. 

You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.