A headteacher has described a attack on one of his pupils as “appalling.”

Nathan Inness-Harrero was kneed and head-butted in the face in Albany Court, Epping, on Wednesday at around 7pm.

Chris Seward has been head of Devenant Foundation School in Debden for 12 years.

He said: “Nathan is a smashing lad with good friends and has never been any problem.

“I have absolutely no idea why this would have happened.

“We are now concerned for his wellbeing and hope to see him back at school as soon as possible.”

The 15-year-old had to undergo emergency surgery at Princess Alexandra Hospital to prevent damage to his eyesight after being left bleeding and unable to stand.

The attack was carried out by two boys from another local school while a group of about eight watched and one filmed the events on his mobile phone.

Police are investigating the incident and appealing for information.