Arrest after girl stabbed at school

Officers were called to the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic School in Southwark, south London, where the girl had suffered minor wounds to her chest and thigh.

It is believed the girl was injured during a fight with a 14-year-old boy, who was arrested after the incident, and followed a series of arguments between the pair.

Sally Coates, the headteacher of the school, said the boy had been suspended pending investigation, but denied the incident was related to drugs or gangs.

"It was an insignificant disagreement between two pupils that got out of hand," she said.

"This is a highly disciplined, high-achieving school, and we have never had anything like this happen before. This is a one-off, and we are taking it very seriously."

The girl, who has not been named, was taken to hospital for stitches, but is expected to return to school on Friday.

Detective Chief Inspector David Ainscough from Southwark police said officers were working with the school to establish the exact circumstances of the attack.

"This type of incident is unacceptable and is being thoroughly investigated. I would urge anyone with information to contact police," he said.

The boy was released on police bail pending further enquiries.