Thank God for NHS, says Bradford teacher who survived knife attack

http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2015/jun/23/thank-god-for-nhs--bradford-teacher-knife-attack

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The teacher who survived a knife attack at a school in Bradford has issued his first statement since the incident, thanking his colleagues and the emergency services – as well as thanking God for the NHS.

A 14-year-old boy has pleaded not guilty to the attempted murder of Vincent Uzomah, who was stabbed as he taught a science class at Dixons Kings academy in the West Yorkshire city.

The 50-year-old supply teacher was rushed to hospital but did not suffer internal bleeding. He said in a statement: “I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to God and to everyone for all the support that myself and family have received during the course of the traumatic event of my life.

“It has been 12 days since this event occurred and I thank the Lord Jesus for sparing my life. I further wish to take this opportunity to thank all the doctors and nurses, in fact all the healthcare professionals that worked so hard to ensure that I am still here today. I have always heard and read that NHS is a first-class service, and now I have experienced it. Thank God for the NHS.

“I wish also to thank the headteacher and colleagues at Dixons Kings academy, and those of other schools across West and North Yorkshire for their support during these very trying times for me and my family. The same also go to the vice-chancellor, staff and students of University of Salford for their support.

“My heartfelt appreciation also goes to West Yorkshire police in their hard work and support on this case.

“My family and I appreciate the overwhelming support, love and care that we have received from friends and well-wishers, as I continue on the path towards recovery. Thank you all.”

The boy charged with Uzomah’s attempted murder, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is being held on remand in a youth detention centre. He is also charged with possession of cannabis.

Uzomah had only been with the school for a month when he was attacked in front of a class of pupils.

Dixons Kings originally opened in 2011 as Kings science academy, one of the first wave of free schools. It faced a series of claims connected to alleged financial mismanagement. Its founder and former principal, Sajid Raja, was this year charged with fraud in connection with his running of the school.

Last year, the school joined the Bradford-based Dixons Academy Trust chain of schools.