A FIFTEEN-year-old girl was arrested at a Colchester school after a fellow pupil suffered head injuries.

Police and paramedics were called to St Benedict’s Catholic College, in Norman Way, following a “disturbance”.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “A 15-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and bailed.”

The victim, a 14-year-old girl, was punched in the head repeatedly at around 3pm on Monday.

A spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service said: “We were called at 3.07pm to a 14-year-old with head injuries.

“She was taken to Colchester General Hospital by ambulance.”

One worried parent, who asked not to be named, said many parents of pupils at the school were concerned at the level of bullying there.

She said: “They have got a serious bullying problem and something needs to be done about it for the sake of the children.

“A girl had to go to hospital.

“It is not so much them trying to hide it from the public, but trying to minimise what is actually happening.”

A statement from the school, issued by the education authority Essex County Council, insisted there was “little bullying” there.

It stated: “We will not comment on cases involving individual pupils, but would like to reassure parents that any unacceptable behaviour is addressed and dealt with.

“The college works hard to ensure a safe, supportive environment for all pupils and if parents have any concerns about the college, then the principal would encourage them to get in touch directly so she can personally listen to any concerns.

“Students confirm the college maintains a safe environment and there is little bullying.

“What bullying exists is dealt with firmly.”

The girl, 15, has been given police bail until next month while inquiries continue.