An investigation has been launched to find a masked suspect who fled the scene on an e-scooter after “acid attack” at a school in west London.

Two students were approached by a “lone suspect” in Alfred Road at Westminster Academy around 4.40pm yesterday (September 30).

A substance, believed to be acidic, was thrown at the pair before the suspect fled down Harrow Road.

A teacher at the school put herself in danger to provide first aid to the two kids who were attacked.

The 14-year-old girl remains in hospital where her injuries are being treated as potentially life-changing.

The 16-year-old boy was also hospitalised where his injuries were assessed as not life-threatening or life-changing.

The 27-year-old teacher was also rushed to hospital for treatment after the attack but has since been discharged.

Two police officers were also taken to hospital “as a precaution” after they reported feeling unwell, they have also been discharged.

The suspect is described by police as a tall, slim, black male, wearing dark clothing with his face obscured, possibly by a mask or balaclava.

He rode an e-scooter to and from the scene.

Detective Chief Inspector Dean Purvis, who is leading the investigation, said: “Officers were on routine patrol when they were flagged down to this terrible incident.

“From our enquiries so far we believe the two young victims were on Alfred Road when they were approached by a lone suspect who threw a substance at them before fleeing down Harrow Road.

“A member of staff bravely and selflessly rushed to provide first aid to the two victims, sustaining injuries herself in the process. Fortunately she has now left hospital.

“The two teenage victims – a girl and a boy - remain in hospital.

“For the 14-year-old girl we might not know for some time how severe her injuries are but at this time they are being treated as life-changing.

“I know how incredibly concerning this incident is to parents and pupils and the wider Westminster community.

“We are in close contact with the school and local authority, and I can assure people that a thorough investigation is well under way, and that my officers will not stop until the suspect is found and arrested.

“If you have information that can help us, it is imperative that you tell us immediately. The area at the time was busy with people and cars.

“I am particularly interested in hearing from anyone who might have captured dash cam footage that can help us establish what happened.”

DCI Purvis added: “I would like to acknowledge the incredible bravery of all the emergency services who responded, including our London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade colleagues.

“Two officers were taken to hospital as a precaution after they reported feeling unwell.

“I am happy to update that they are both well and have left hospital, and we will continue to look after their welfare.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information that could help police, should call 101 ref CAD 4987/30Sep.

To remain 100% anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

In a statement on the school’s website, Westminster Academy said the site was closed on Tuesday due to “unforeseen circumstances”.

It added: “Students will resume lessons through online learning.

“Information will be shared with them via Google Classroom through their teachers.”