Police Investigate Incident During School Orienteering Trip

Year 10 students from Outwood Academy Danum were attending an orienteering trip at the Hesley Wood Activity Centre on Thursday, 15 October 2026, when a female pupil reported being approached and chased through the woods by an unknown man carrying a knife

The incident occurred around lunchtime at Hesley Wood, a large woodland adventure centre managed by the Scouts and widely used by schools for outdoor education and team-building exercises.

According to initial reports and messages sent to parents:

A female pupil spotted an individual armed with a knife in the woods who allegedly attempted to chase her. She managed to escape unharmed and immediately alerted trip organisers and school staff.

Teachers and activity leaders quickly moved all students to a designated safe area, conducted a full register, and kept the pupils under close supervision.

Hesley Wood staff dispatched a site team to inspect the area while South Yorkshire Police were called to the scene. Officers conducted a search of the surrounding woodland, but no suspect or weapon was located at the time.

Official Statements

A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police confirmed officers responded to the call at 1:17 pm on Thursday:

"It is reported that an unknown man in possession of a knife attempted to chase a girl at the location. Officers attended the scene and carried out an area search for the man to no gain, and no weapon was found. Enquiries are ongoing."

In a letter sent to parents, Outwood Academy Danum principal Amanda Crane praised the quick thinking of the pupils and teachers involved:

"All children returned safe and well and we thank the children and staff for their proactive response. This is now a police matter. The pupil who reported the incident has given a statement to the police and we are working with them also."

Police Appeal for Information

Police are appealing to anyone who may have been near Hesley Wood or White Lane around lunchtime on Thursday, 15 October 2026, and noticed suspicious behaviour.

South Yorkshire Police have launched an investigation following a frightening incident involving a Doncaster pupil during an outdoor school activity in Chapeltown.

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