School "supporting students" after two arrested over playground attack

Two 16-year-old boys have been arrested following the attack at Brinsworth Academy on Monday morning.

Footage of the incident shows a boy lying on the floor being punched and kicked.

The school declined to comment when contacted by the Advertiser but later released a statement saying: “Immediate and decisive action has been taken in response to an incident that occurred in school.

“We have been working closely with South Yorkshire Police and Rotherham Council over the last 24 hours. 

“We are currently working to support the victim and his family.

“We are addressing the incident with other students via assemblies, tutor sessions and other support.

“Brinsworth Academy and LEAP Multi Academy Trust are committed to ensuring the safety of our young people. 

“The overwhelming majority of our student body demonstrate harmonious relationships on a daily basis.”

A police spokesperson said the two boys were from Rotherham and 

been arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

“They remain in police custody and an investigation into the incident is ongoing,” a spokeswoman said yesterday.

Social media users were urged not to share a video of the incident online.

Det Chief Insp Daniel Boulter said: “This was a particularly nasty attack that left the victim with serious injuries.

“I’m aware the incident was filmed and has been shared on social media. 

“I would urge members of the public not to share this footage as it is incredibly distressing for the victim and his family and could harm future legal proceedings.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information that could assist with enquiries, is asked to call 101. 

You can also report information through the South Yorkshire Police online portal, using reference 14/137058/21 or anonymously to Crimestoppers at crimestoppers-uk.org or on 0800 555 111.