Bicton College will be going into Lockdown later this month as part of a drill to make its students 'aware of and avoid the risks of radicalism and extremism leading to terrorism'.

The Lockdown Drill will take place on Monday, November 18, at Bicton College. The school is based near Budleigh Salterton, between Exmouth and Sidmouth.

The drill will simulate a scenario where police firearms officers are searching the college for a potential intruder. The police will then detain the intruder.

Students will be supported in finding a safe place and told to wait until they have been given the all clear by police or staff.

A spokesperson for the college said: "The meaning behind the term "Lockdown" is an emergency measure or condition in which people are temporarily prevented from entering or leaving a restricted area or building (such as a school/college) during a threat of danger.

"This is part of the study programme that we offer to all students, as part of raising their awareness of how to respond to an unplanned incident. It forms part of "Prevent", which encourages all students to be aware of and avoid the risks of radicalism and extremism leading to terrorism."

A student briefing involving the police will take place on November 11. At the briefing students will have the opportunity to ask questions, raise concerns or discuss any fears.

The college is asking parents who may be concerned about their children being involved to contact their Study Programme Manager to discuss alternative arrangements.