Melbourne Teacher Stabs Principal After Learning Contract Would Not Be Renewed

A Melbourne teacher allegedly stabbed his school principal. The incident happened at Keysborough Secondary College on December 2, 2025. The teacher, Kim Ramchen, reportedly acted after learning his contract would end.

He was immediately arrested and charged. Principal Aaron Sykes sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The school was placed into lockdown during the violent event.

A Rapid and Violent Escalation in the Principal’s Office

Police reports detail a swift and shocking attack. Kim Ramchen, 37, had just finished his final IT class for the day. He then entered Principal Aaron Sykes’s office.

He was allegedly armed with a kitchen knife. A confrontation ensued where Sykes was stabbed in the forearm. The knife was also held to the principal’s throat.

Assistant Principal Matthew Sloan intervened after hearing a scream. He found Ramchen kneeling on top of Sykes. Sloan pulled Ramchen away, causing him to drop the knife and flee the office.

Ramchen then allegedly seized a second, larger knife. He returned to the office waving it. Staff members managed to wrestle him to the ground and restrain him until police arrived.

The Quiet Teacher’s Background and Legal Fallout

Court testimony reveals a man under immense pressure. Ramchen’s lawyer stated he “snapped” when a door was shut during a discussion about his contract. He made full admissions to police, saying he had “never been so angry.”

He has no prior criminal history. Family describe him as a quiet, highly educated provider for his wife and young son. His brother expressed complete shock at the allegations.

According to 9News, Ramchen was refused bail. The magistrate cited concerns over his “erratic” behavior. He faces charges including assault with a weapon and recklessly endangering life.

School Response and Lingering Questions on Safety

The school community was deeply shaken. Students hid in classrooms during the lockdown. One student told reporters they ran into a food tech room to shelter.

Principal Sykes was treated in hospital and has since been released. The school praised its staff for their brave and quick response. They stated violence is “entirely unacceptable” in the school environment.

The event raises hard questions about workplace stress in education. It highlights the critical need for mental health support and conflict resolution. Schools are now re-examining safety protocols for staff and students.

This Melbourne teacher contract termination stabbing is a stark reminder of how workplace pressures can erupt. The case continues through the courts as the school community focuses on healing.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What exactly happened at Keysborough Secondary College?

On December 2, 2025, IT teacher Kim Ramchen allegedly stabbed Principal Aaron Sykes. This occurred after Ramchen was informed his teaching contract would not be renewed for the following year.

What were the injuries to the principal?

Principal Aaron Sykes suffered stab wounds to his forearm and a cut to his lip. His injuries were reported as non-life-threatening, and he has been released from the hospital.

What has happened to the teacher involved?

Kim Ramchen was arrested at the scene and charged with multiple offences, including assault with a weapon. He was refused bail and will next face court on January 6, 2026.

Were any students hurt in the incident?

No students were physically injured. The school was placed into a precautionary lockdown during the incident to ensure student safety while the situation was contained by staff and police.

What has the school said about the incident?

The school has condemned the violence and praised its staff’s response. They have confirmed the principal is recovering and have offered support services to the school community.

Did the teacher have a history of violence?

According to family statements and court reports, Kim Ramchen had no prior criminal history. He was described by his brother as a non-violent person, making the alleged actions highly out of character.