A SCHOOL staff member was taken to hospital after allegedly being attacked by a child from another school in an incident described as “absolutely disgusting”.
Parents have spoken out about the safety of children in The Bishop of Winchester Academy in Bournemouth after a 14-year-old girl was arrested following the reported assault of members of staff.
The incident took place at lunchtime on Thursday, March 30, in front of pupils in the field of the school in Mallard Road.
Video footage seen by the Echo appears to show an individual attacking the victim before being restrained by two adults.
Children can be heard shouting and reacting in the background.
Dorset Police says it received a report at 1.32pm on Thursday of a disturbance at the secondary school.
A police spokesperson said: “It is reported that a girl – who is not a pupil at the school – assaulted members of staff. They attended hospital for treatment to injuries that are not believed to be serious.
“Officers attended and a 14-year-old girl from Bournemouth was arrested on suspicion of assault, aggravated trespassing and criminal damage. She has been released on police bail while enquiries continue.
“An investigation is underway and officers from the local neighbourhood policing team can be approached by anyone who wants to discuss any concerns.”
Jeff Williams, director of education for The Diocese of Winchester, said: “Yesterday, a student from another school entered the site. Police were called, arrived promptly and arrested the young person. At no time were any students at risk and the situation was resolved swiftly, and the children were able to resume their lessons as normal.
“The school takes this matter very seriously and are working with the police to ensure the school and young people continue to be kept safe.”
Mr Williams added: “I can confirm that the young person did become violent towards members of staff and had to be restrained.”
One parent, whose daughter witnessed the incident, said parents were informed via a letter shortly afterwards.
“It’s absolutely disgusting, that could have happened to a pupil,” she said. “The fact that anyone can get onto the grounds is seriously worrying. 11-year-olds in Year 7 should not have to see things like that.
“The school said the children were never at risk, but what about that poor teacher?
“This should never have happened.”
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