EDUCATION chiefs have defended their anti-bullying policy after a mum told how her son was attacked at a Johnstone primary school.

A group of five older children at Thorn Primary are said to have pounced on the nine-year-old boy in November last year.

The youngster, who has a mild learning disability, needed hospital treatment following the incident.

However, education bosses have said the attack was an isolated incident and was dealt with quickly at the time.

A Renfrewshire Council spokesman added: "Ensuring the wellbeing of all our pupils is a priority for every school and we take all cases extremely seriously, recognising the concern this causes for those involved.

"While we cannot comment on individual cases, in this instance the matter was dealt with by the school.

"After the incident, community police officers visited the school to educate pupils on appropriate behaviour. All incidents reported to the school are investigated thoroughly and appropriate action taken."

He added: "The ‘buddy system’ that operates in schools across Renfrewshire is designed to provide peer-to-peer support for pupils, which is often very effective in providing support to pupils and is intended to foster positive relationships between pupils.

"Unfortunately, bullying is an issue that affects schools across the country.

"We are committed to providing the right training and support to teachers, support to those affected, but also focusing on prevention, to tackle inappropriate behaviour and ensure that every child is able to fulfil their potential."