The 15-year-old youth accused of stabbing a teacher at Tewkesbury Academy did not enter his plea to an alternative charge at today's court hearing.

The youth, who cannot be named because of his age, has previously admitted possession of a 'bladed article' in the school building, but did not enter a charge of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm.

At today's hearing (July 21) at Cheltenham Youth Court, the boy wearing a blue polo top, appeared via video link flanked by his parents and confirmed his name, and date of birth.

His lawyer James McKenna also appeared by video link, stated he had not seen the details of the amended charge.

Mr McKenna also said that he hadn't had a person to person consultation with the youth, but added this was scheduled for next week and suggested that a further hearing should be held at the end of the month.

Prosecutor Laura Burgess said that the amended charge is a section 18, wounding maths teacher Jamie Sansom with intent on July 10, 2023. However, because it was a grave crime decision for the case to stay in the youth court it would make sense if the district judge was to preside over the hearing.

She added: "This is a very sensible proposal as there was still a lot of work going on behind the scenes."

Presiding Justice Stephen Pitt acknowledged that additional reports were being prepared on the 15-year-old and remanded him into youth detention accommodation for the protection of the public until July 31, when he will appear in person at Cheltenham Youth Court for a further pre-trial hearing.