Police to keep presence at Hamilton school

Police are likely to return tomorrow to Hamilton's Fairfield College, the scene of a fight which led to two arrests yesterday.

Two girls, aged 14 and 13, were arrested on a charge of assault with intent to injure after an alleged attack on a 17-year-old girl. The brawl reportedly expanded to include several others.

The fight at the troubled school prompted police to have "a low profile police presence" in and around the school during breaks in classes today.

Sergeant Jim Cassin of North Hamilton police said students were much better behaved today.

"I went down to the school during two half-hour breaks and they were both fairly quiet," Mr Cassin told NZPA.

"We plan to be there again tomorrow, which is the last day of term, and it will be re-assessed before the beginning of the next term."

Police had visited the school previously as part of a "Campus Cops" initiative in the city, Mr Cassin said.

Initial indications were that the two arrested students, both in year nine, punched a 17-year-old year-13 student on the face as she tried to enter a room.

Mr Cassin said the victim's boyfriend went to intervene, but was set on by the two girls and by a larger group that included several male students.

The victim suffered bruising and swelling to her head and neck.

Mr Cassin said the 14-year-old had appeared in Hamilton Youth Court, while the 13-year-old had been referred to Youth Aid.

He said the school was considering some action against other students who became involved in the fight. Some suspensions were believed to be possibilities.

The brawl was the latest in a series of setbacks for the college, including the resignation of its board members in February after a critical Education Review Office report.

Commissioner Dennis Finn was appointed to take over their roles.

- NZPA