Girls Model: Principal says allegation of alleged assault being investigated and calls for speculation to cease

The principal of a Belfast school at the centre of an alleged incident which is being investigated by police has addressed the matter in a letter to parents.

Belfast Model School for Girls Principal Paula Stuart assured parents the allegation is being fully investigated and called for speculation online to cease as it is potentially fuelling tensions with the local community in North Belfast.

The PSNI launched an investigation after a number of reports of an assault at the school on Dunowen Gardens just off the Oldpark Road.

READ MORE: Belfast school assault being investigated by police

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The alleged incident in the playground on Tuesday, November 12, was apparently witnessed by members of staff, with a local MLA saying the incident has caused "huge concern" among the school community.

The school said the incident it is being dealt with in line with Education Authority guidelines while the Education Authority said there is no evidence to support inaccurate claims being expressed around social media regarding pupil safety at the school.

In a letter posted to parents and guardians on social media on Wednesday evening, Principal Stuart wrote: "You may be aware of ongoing social media commentary in relation to an incident that occurred in our school playground on Tuesday 12th November 2024.

"We are aware of various claims circulating on social media which has unfortunately led to increased tensions in our community, negatively impacting on student wellbeing and their sense of safety. I want to assure you that we take the safety and well-being of all our pupils very seriously.

"We are working closely with the Education Authority and the Police Service of Northern Ireland to address this matter appropriately. It is important to note that, contrary to some reports, there is no evidence to support the inaccurate claims or fears being expressed on social media around pupil safety and we would ask for your support in helping to stop the spread of such information.

"Our priorities are: 1. To protect and support all students, especially those directly impacted by the incident. 2. To maintain a safe and inclusive learning environment for everyone in our school community. We kindly ask for your support in the following ways: 1. Please discuss with your children any concerns they have about the situation openly and calmly. 2. Encourage your children to speak with our staff if they have any worries or information to share.

"3. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the school directly. We have robust pastoral care arrangements in place to support all pupils. 4. Help us maintain a safe environment by refraining from sharing or engaging with speculation on social media.

"Our school is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all our pupils. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to address this situation in the best interests of our entire school community. Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to seeing your child in school tomorrow."

DUP MLA Brian Kingston said: “I have spoken this morning to the Chair of the Board of Governors of the Girls Model School regarding the serious physical incident which occurred yesterday.

"She tells me that the school is fully aware of this incident which was witnessed by members of staff and that the school is dealing with this in line with Education Authority guidelines.

"The PSNI, the EA and the parents of the pupils concerned have all been informed and are also now involved. This incident has caused huge concern among the school community.

" DUP elected representatives have requested a meeting with the School Principal regarding this matter. We will continue to monitor progress as it is dealt with by the school leadership and other relevant statutory authorities. Pupil safety remains our primary concern.”

A spokesperson for the Education Authority told Belfast Live they are working alongside the school and the PSNI in line with "robust and established processes and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of our pupils."

In a statement, they said: “The Education Authority is aware of an incident that occurred in a school playground on Tuesday 12 November 2024. Inaccurate information has been shared on social media, leading to increased tensions within the community, negatively impacting on student wellbeing and their sense of safety.

“We want to assure the wider school community that the safety and protection of all pupils is our highest priority. The school is working with the EA and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) in line with robust and established processes and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of all our pupils.

“It is important to note that, contrary to some reports, there is no evidence to support inaccurate claims or fears being expressed on social media around pupil safety at the school and we would ask for support in helping to stop the spread of such information.

“We would ask for the wider community for their continued support in our efforts to maintain a safe learning environment for all children and young people.”

Police said they have received a number of reports of assault which are alleged to have occurred at a school in North Belfast on Tuesday 12th November.

Chief Inspector Alan Lowry said: “Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances and officers are liaising with key stakeholders in relation to this matter.

“We would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to this matter, to contact police."

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