Teacher stabs principal in Melbourne school

Table of Contents

• MELBOURNE — A Keysborough Secondary College teacher allegedly attacked his principal after learning his contract would not be renewed
• What happened at the school and how staff responded
• Immediate impacts and how schools manage such risks
• Key facts at a glance
• Support and next steps for the school community
• FAQs

MELBOURNE — A Keysborough Secondary College teacher allegedly attacked his principal after learning his contract would not be renewed

The incident began just after 3pm when a teacher, identified as a 37-year-old IT educator, allegedly entered the principal’s office and stabbed the principal with a kitchen knife. Teacher stabs principal is the central fact; the attack prompted an immediate lockdown, frightened students and left the school community reeling.

Authorities say the teacher had been told two weeks earlier that his contract would not be renewed for 2026. According to court reports, the confrontation escalated quickly inside the principal’s office before staff intervened and students hid under desks.

Police and court documents describe a violent sequence: an initial four-inch knife used in the principal’s office, an assistant principal restraining the attacker briefly, and the accused returning to the staff kitchen to grab a larger 12‑inch knife during the lockdown. Staff and teachers — some of whom wrestled with the assailant — managed to pin him down until police arrived.

The principal, named in reporting as Aaron Sykes, was treated for forearm injuries and has since been released from hospital. Magistrates refused bail for the accused at a bail hearing where the court heard the man’s behaviour had been erratic during the incident.

"Everyone started running, like the teachers, telling us quickly hide, get in the room," a student recalled, capturing the shock and fear felt across classrooms.

The accused is reported to be married with a young son and, by all accounts from family, academically accomplished. A brother told the court the man was highly intelligent but quiet and withdrawn. Court documents also note this was his first time in custody and he had no prior criminal history.

Adding an unexpected layer to the story, the family name appeared in national headlines decades ago after the accused’s mother disappeared in 1992. She was a former model on a television show and was presumed murdered; charges against the father were later withdrawn. That background was mentioned in court but is separate from the school incident.

What happened at the school and how staff responded

Staff action appears to have limited further harm. An assistant principal and other teachers physically restrained the attacker, and students were directed into classrooms during a swift lockdown. Emergency services attended and the principal received medical treatment.

The school community has been left shaken. Authorities continue to investigate and the matter is before the courts, with judicial decisions and formal charges expected to follow as police finalise inquiries.

Immediate impacts and how schools manage such risks

Violent incidents in schools are rare, but they test emergency procedures and staff preparedness. Quick lockdowns, clear teacher communication and physical intervention by trained staff were crucial in this case. Schools often review procedures and counselling support after traumatic events to help students and staff recover.

Parents and carers should expect official communications from the school about wellbeing support, incident overviews, and any temporary changes to on-site operations while investigations continue.

Key facts at a glance

• When: The alleged attack occurred just after the final class finished, around 3pm.
• Where: Keysborough Secondary College, Melbourne.
• Who: A 37-year-old IT teacher allegedly attacked the principal; the principal was treated and released from hospital.
• Outcome: The accused was refused bail; the matter is before the courts and investigations are ongoing.
• Context: The accused’s employment contract had recently been not renewed for 2026, and family history includes a decades-old disappearance of his mother.

Support and next steps for the school community

Following traumatic events, schools commonly provide counselling services, briefings for parents, and extra pastoral care for affected students. It’s important the community receives accurate updates from school leaders and law enforcement to reduce rumours and misinformation.

If you are a parent, check official communications from the school and contact them about wellbeing support for your child. For staff, access employee assistance programs and seek peer support as needed.

FAQs

Was the principal seriously injured?

The principal sustained forearm injuries from a knife but has since been released from hospital. Medical treatment was provided at the scene and at hospital prior to discharge.

Has the attacker been charged and is he in custody?

The accused is in custody and bail was refused at a court hearing because of erratic behaviour during the incident. Police investigations and court processes are ongoing.

Were any students harmed during the lockdown?

No reports indicate students were physically injured; many hid under desks during the lockdown and were understandably traumatised. The school is offering support services.

What prompted the attack?

Court reports say the teacher had recently been told his contract would not be renewed for 2026. Investigators are examining the full circumstances and any motives as part of their inquiry.

How can schools prevent similar incidents?

Prevention focuses on early intervention, clear grievance procedures, staff training in de-escalation and lockdown protocols, and strong wellbeing support. Regular reviews and drills help ensure readiness for emergencies.

The information in this article has been adapted from mainstream news sources and video reports published on official channels. Watch the full video here Teacher stabs principal after contract rejection | 7NEWS