AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after a child was allegedly pushed by a member of staff in a school playground.

The nine-year-old boy, who has learning disabilities, was “pulled by his coat” by a learning support assistant, according to his mother, during the incident at Runwell Primary School, in Canewdon Gardens, Wickford.

The school has confirmed an investigation is underway and insists children’s safety and wellbeing is of “paramount importance.”

Essex Police confirmed it was called to a reported assault at the school; however no further police action will be taken.

The mum, who asked not to be named, said: “I got a call from the headteacher to tell me about the incident and they told me to call the police.

“The assistant pulled him back by his coat and pushed him backwards to make him sit down on a bench.

“My son has disabilities and was playing a bit rough but he didn’t understand that. I think it’s disgusting and I cannot find the words to express how I feel.

“My son is worried about it and has been worried about going to school.

“I was told the learning support assistant has not been at the school since the incident on December 16. I went to the school and was angry. When I got there my son was in class but was brought to see me and the headteacher.”

The mum claims she was told by the school’s headteacher that the learning support assistant will not return to the school until the investigation is complete.

However, the school was unable to confirm whether the member of staff was suspended or not.

In a statement, provided via Essex County Council, a spokesman for Runwell Primary School said: “This incident is being investigated by the school in line with all policies and procedures set out by the local authority.

“As this investigation is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further.

“The safety and wellbeing of pupils is of paramount importance to us and we take our safeguarding responsibilities extremely seriously.”

An Essex Police spokesman said: “We were called to investigate reports of an assault without injury at a school in Wickford on December 16. Following an initial investigation, no further action from the police has been taken. Safeguarding matters will sit with the school.”