A TEENAGER from Hutchesons' Grammar School was taken to hospital after being attacked by a gang of youths in broad daylight.

The 17-year-old boy was set upon by six Asian boys, aged 15 to 16, while outside school grounds, near Beaton Road in Crossmyloof, with a female pupil, also 17.

It is believed they were collecting samples for a biology class when they were confronted by the gang on Tuesday.

While the girl was unhurt, the boy was admitted to hospital and will require further treatment - although he was back at school yesterday and said to be "recovering from a traumatic ordeal".

Although the latest attack is not believed to be race related, it comes amid growing tensions at the school.

Rector Dr Ken Greig said: "This was a very upsetting and totally unprovoked incident involving a pupil in S6.

"The police are dealing with it fully and we understand that the youths concerned have been charged."

The attack has sparked anger among parents who claim Hutchesons' pupils have been victimised over the last few months, with white students targeted in racially-motivated attacks.

Police confirmed six males, one aged 15, the others 16, were arrested in connection with a breach of the peace and assault, and a report has been sent to the procurator-fiscal.