An investigation has begun into footage of a so-called happy slapping attack filmed in front of pupils at a Telford school, education chiefs said today.

The sickening film showed a helpless teenager being savagely beaten and kicked by another girl at Wrockwardine Wood Arts College, with fellow pupils looking on laughing and cheering.

Now, Telford & Wrekin Council, the education authority, has confirmed an investigation has begun into the film, which emerged yesterday.

Richard Williams, headteacher at the school, has vowed to meet parents of the girl next week to investigate the circumstances and has pledged to fully cooperate with a police probe.

He said today: “It has been difficult to investigate this incident as thoroughly as I would like at this stage as it happened on the last day of term.

“After discovering some initial details, I immediately contacted the pupil’s parents to talk about what happened and will be meeting with them on Monday to discuss how we will be addressing the issue.

“Any incidence of bullying or physical harm is treated with the utmost seriousness and I can assure all parents it will be thoroughly investigated.

“We will of course co-operate fully with the police and their investigations.”

The 15-year-old victim has asked not to be named but her parents from Trench, Telford, have described the attack as “disgusting” and “horrific”.

Anyone with information about the attack or how it was filmed is asked to contact Telford police on 08457 444888 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.