The principal of a school in Canberra has been suspended after it was revealed that an autistic boy was locked in a metal cage. It was announced yesterday an investigation was underway after it emerged a 10-year-old autistic bot was put in a 2m by 2m structure by his teachers at a Canberra school. The cage was specifically designed for him to as a 'withdrawal space' while in class. Scroll down for video . The cage was specifically designed as a 'withdrawal space' for the 10-year-old autistic boy. ACT Education MInister Joy Burch (pictured) said it is a horrifying situation . The Minister said an investigation into the incident is underway.'This structure could not be deemed acceptable in any way shape or form, in any of our public education schools, hence it was withdrawn,' she said . The principal has been removed from the school and two teachers with expertise in disability education have been assigned to the school. The structure was in place from March 10 to March 27, according to ACT Education Minister Joy Burch. Shadow Education Minister Kate Ellis said the mistreatment of students with a disability was 'shocking and deeply disturbing'. 'The abuse or neglect of students with disability is absolutely unacceptable,' Ms Ellis said. 'All students – including those with disability – deserve to be recognised as learners and supported to achieve their best,' she said. 'As a society, we have a responsibility to ensure our schools are safe and caring environments for all students, at all times.' It was also revealed that the school only removed the cage when they were ordered to do so by the ACT Education Department after they received a complaint from the boy's parents. Ms Burch said words could not describe her disappointment and horror at the situation. The Minister also said an investigation into the incident is underway. 'This structure could not be deemed acceptable in any way shape or form, in any of our public education schools, hence it was withdrawn,' she said. 'I have initiated an absolute thorough investigation as to the why this structure was allowed to be put in place. 'I have also made assurances through the school executive and through our support teams that the child and the family involved is given the utmost support over this time.' Ms Burch said she was 'very angry and very disappointed' with the incident and said the cage had no place in a classroom. ACT Education Directorate Director-General Diane Joseph (pictured) said the 'confronting' structure was 'entirely inappropriate and unacceptable' The issue came to light after a complaint was made to the Children and Young People's Commissioner about the cage and the name of the school cannot be revealed due to privacy reasons. ACT Education Directorate Director-General Diane Joseph said the 'confronting' structure was 'entirely inappropriate and unacceptable'. 'The space was basically a fenced-in structure inside a classroom,' Ms Joseph said. 'The structure was built for one particular student. 'The decision to erect such a structure raises so many questions. I have asked for the investigation to be treated with the upmost urgency.' The horrific news comes as organisations and people come together to recognise World Autism Awareness Day. The day is designed to raise awareness and much-needed funds through unique measures.
Principal  suspended after it emerged an autistic boy was locked in a cage.
10-year-old boy was forced into a 'withdrawal space' inside the classroom.
ACT Education Minister Joy Burch said words cannot describe the horror.
Issue raised after complaint was made to ACT Human Rights Commission.
Shadow Education Minister Kate Ellis says incident 'deeply disturbing'