A primary school in Groningen has been forced to employ a private security guard after fights between two parents, one in the playground and another, several days later, in the school itself.

The security guard has been posted at the main entrance at the start and end of the school day in an effort to head off future trouble, the broadcaster said. The parents concerned have also been banned from the premises.

Some of the pupils witnessed the fight and it had a deep impact on them, one parent said. According to a letter to parents, the dispute between the parents unconnected with the school itself.

School head Joyce Dekker told local broadcaster RTV Noord the school, social workers and the police are now attempting to mediate between the parents. Talks are due to take place later on Thursday.