The families of the victims – who are now aged 16 and 17 – said the hammer attack had been a “horrific case” to deal with and thanked everyone who had helped them.
A family member of the 17-year-old victim said: “I am looking forward to my family moving on now that the trial is over, and I hope my son will continue his recovery and have a good future ahead.”
The 16-year-old’s family added: “We are indebted to everyone involved and would like to convey our sincerest thanks.”
After the sentencing, Det Insp Dave Egan, senior investigating officer for Devon and Cornwall Police, said it had been an “unprovoked attack” which would have a “lasting impact” on the victims, their families and the whole school community.
“The assaults were both brutal and savage, and I have no doubt that his intent was to kill,” Insp Egan said.