Chaotic student protest at Beckfoot Upper Heaton School

Emergency services were called to Beckfoot Upper Heaton School, off Thorn Lane, at around lunchtime. 

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said crews attended the school due to an automated fire alarm sounding - but the incident later turned out to be a "false alarm". 

Upon arrival, firefighters said they were confronted by a "large gathering of youths" - and "projectiles" were thrown at their fire engine. 

Crews "withdrew from the location until it was safe to proceed", according to the fire service.

West Yorkshire Police said officers were in attendance, liaising with the school and students.

A spokesperson for Beckfoot Upper Heaton School said "a number of young people gathered on the playing field at lunchtime in response to an issue".

One parent told the Telegraph & Argus they understood the protest related to an aspect of the school's uniform/dress code policy, although this has not been confirmed.

The T&A has seen video footage showing large groups of pupils shouting, kicking the school gates and stamping on a sign.

Police were called to the protest (Image: Submitted)

A fire engine can also been seen in attendance.

One youngster can be heard saying "that's not going anywhere" while another tries to clamber on to the engine. 

A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Fire crews attended an automated fire alarm shortly after 1pm at Thorn Lane, Bingley Road, Bradford.

"On arrival they were confronted by a large gathering of youths whereby projectiles were directed at the vehicle.

"Crews withdrew from the location until it was safe to proceed.

"The incident was a false alarm."

A police presence near the school on Friday afternoon (Image: T&A)

A West Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: "Police were called at 12.08pm to reports of a student protest outside a school off Thorn Lane in Bradford.  

"Local neighbourhood policing teams are liaising with the school and students, and are there to provide visibility and reassurance in the area."

A spokesperson for Beckfoot Upper Heaton School said: "Earlier today a number of young people gathered on the playing field at lunchtime in response to an issue.

"Calm was quickly restored and the school day continued as normal."

A number of parents have contacted the T&A to voice their concerns about the situation and disputed the school's comments that "calm was quickly restored".

One parent described the situation as "crazy".