A chilling incident in Ammanford has left a community shaken after a teenage girl attacked two teachers and a fellow pupil at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman. The 13-year-old, who cannot be publicly named, had a fascination with weapons and war, including an interest in Hitler. Despite being considered for the anti-terror programme Prevent, no referral was made prior to the attack.
The girl was sentenced to 15 years for attempted murder at Swansea Crown Court after she used her father’s multi-tool in the attack. Prior troubling behaviour included carrying a knife and making threats, yet the extent of these issues wasn’t fully communicated across agencies.
A recent report highlighted how various organisations had bits of the puzzle regarding her behaviour, but crucial information wasn’t shared. Her father expressed frustration over the lack of support, stating he sought help but felt ignored until it was too late. He shared regret over not checking her bag the morning of the attack, a routine he generally maintained following concerns about her conduct.
Authorities have acknowledged the need for better information-sharing and support systems for young individuals who exhibit concerning behaviour but don’t meet the Prevent programme criteria. The importance of communication among schools, agencies, and families is paramount to preventing such tragic events.
The school and local authorities expressed sympathy toward the victims and praised the resilience of the Ysgol Dyffryn Aman community, who have rallied to support one another and ensure students return to their studies safely. This sad event serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by communities, highlighting the need for vigilance and improved systems to support our youth.