Updated February 14, 2019 17:41:32

Photo: It is understood the child was a Wanguri Primary School student. (Supplied)

The death of a young child near a Darwin primary school may have been "the result of misadventure", Northern Territory Police have said.

The ABC understands the child died in the playground near Wanguri Primary School last night.

It is understood the child was a pupil at the school.

The Northern Territory Police said the circumstances surrounding the death were non-suspicious and enquiries so far indicate it was a result of "misadventure".

No further details are yet known.

"Northern Territory Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the non-suspicious death of a child in Wanguri," Senior Sergeant Matt Allen said.

"Enquiries to date indicate that the death occurred as a result of misadventure.

"Investigations are continuing and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

The NT Department of Education issued a statement, saying support had been offered to the school's community.

"Our thoughts and condolences are with the family during this difficult time," it said.

"The school principal has been in contact with the family today to offer support where possible.

"Counsellors have been working at the school from this morning and will remain here for as long as students and staff require.

"A letter has been sent to families this afternoon to extend support should they also require it either via the school counsellors or through EASA."

More to come.

Topics: police, law-crime-and-justice, death, community-and-society, wanguri-0810, nt, darwin-0800

First posted February 14, 2019 16:19:32