Staff members at a Barking school have been threatened after a ‘Ban the hijab’ banner was put up in its playground.

Greatfields School in King Edward's Road apologised after sparking outrage over the banner that it admitted was a Year 10 pupil’s “conceptual art project”.

A spokesperson for the school said on Tuesday (April 23) that it was meant “to generate debate and not meant to be offensive in anyway”.

They said: “This was an ill-judged decision and as soon as staff were made aware, the banner was removed immediately as this was not sanctioned by the school."

Read More: Greatfields School, Barking hijab banner was pupil's artwork

Since the incident, Metropolitan Police revealed that they have been made aware of threats made to staff at the school.

Extra patrols were said to be carried out by the police yesterday in the area to reassure the community.

"This is completely unacceptable and all allegations will be fully investigated," the Met spokesperson said.

The school spokesperson had clarified that they are an inclusive school and the banner did not represent the views of the school. 

She said: "We are extremely sorry and apologise for any harm this may have caused.  

“This matter is being fully investigated by the school, and once again we would like to apologise for the hurt and offence caused.”