Extra safety measures have been put in place at a school after a pupil nearly died when he accidentally slashed his wrist on a classroom window.

The 13-year-old pupil, who has not been named, was leaning against a pane of glass at Billericay School when it shattered, sending a shard into his arm.

He required emergency treatment for a severed artery but has since returned to classes. It is understood he was trying to open a high window when the accident happened.

A source close to the school, who wanted to remain anonymous, said there were concerns about safety at the school. The source said: "Witnesses said blood pumped several feet into the air, splattering people nearby.

"The pupil underwent an emergency operation at the hospital to save his life. Fortunately, it was a success.

"The pupil in question is very luckily to be alive. This matter requires investigating urgently."

Sue Hammond, headteacher at the foundation school, agreed the pupil had been in danger but said the incident had been a "simple accident".

She added: "All glass that is fitted in the school must be of a certain strength.

"However, we have now ensured that those windows, such as this which are above a child's height, cannot be opened."

Mrs Hammond said safety was a priority at the school and praised staff who responded to the incident.

She said: "They acted admirably. The pupil was in some danger and had injured himself badly."

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