Three men have been charged in connection with allegations of child cruelty at an independent school in Wirral.

An investigation was launched after the BBC broadcast video footage recorded by an undercover journalist at the Life School on 17 June.

•  Elliot Miller, 21, of Liscard has been charged with common assault of an adult, a Section 5 public order offence, two counts of assault by beating and common assault

•  Daniel McNulty-Doyle, 21, of Little Neston has been charged with using threatening, abusive word or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress

•  Oliver Nugent, 26, of Irby has been charged with assault by beating

Detective Inspector Peter Rexwinkel of Merseyside Police said: “We know this investigation has raised concern in the community, and – working alongside partners in the local authority and health bodies – support has been and will continue to be provided to the pupils and families affected.”

The Life School permanently closed after the alleged incidents came to light and enquiries into the alleged incidents are continuing, said Rexwinkel.

“An independent Child Safeguarding Practice Review will take place, and referrals are being made to professional bodies to safeguard people in future,” he said.