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An assault which occurred at a school in north Belfast is being investigated as a hate crime, police have said.

The incident happened in the playground of Belfast Model School for Girls on Tuesday.

In a letter to parents and guardians, principal, Paula Stuart said the school was "aware of various claims circulating on social media".

She added that these claims have "led to increased tensions in our community, negatively impacting on student wellbeing and their sense of safety".

DUP MLA Brian Kingston said he is "very concerned" about the "physical incident" that happened.

Kingston said there is a "great deal of concern from pupils and parents".

"It's important that the relevant authorities work through what occurred and that action is taken," he added.

The Education Authority (EA) confirmed that they are working with the school and the PSNI in line with "robust and established processes and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being" of pupils.

Kingston also appealed for pupils and parents to "stay calm" and let a "full investigation" take place.

In a statement, the EA said: "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.

"We would ask for support in helping to stop the spread of such information."

Ch Insp Alan Lowry said the Police Service of Northern Ireland is "liaising with key stakeholders in relation to this matter".

The PSNI has appealed to anyone with information to come forward.