Clydebank, Scotland – The number of recorded incidents of employees at education hubs in West Dunbartonshire Council being the victims of aggression by children has risen dramatically in recent years. According to a Freedom of Information request by the Clydebank Post, there were 723 incidents in the 2022/23 school year, compared to 175 in 2017/18, marking a 313 percent increase.
The figures obtained highlight the daily fear that staff members live with and may even underestimate the true extent of the issue, according to a teachers union. With 12,226 school pupils in the council, 5,281 (43%) have Additional Support Needs (ASN), contributing to the challenging environment in schools.
Kilpatrick ASN school had the highest number of recorded incidents, with at least 442 reports since the beginning of the 2017/18 school year, and 77 in 2022/23. The union demanded changes to protect teachers and staff, citing a survey in which 66% of teachers reported daily attacks.
The impact of poverty was also highlighted as a factor contributing to the aggressive behavior of students. Teachers emphasized the significant role that unmet needs of pupils with additional support requirements play in exacerbating violent and disruptive behavior.
The council has vowed to support and ensure the safety of teachers and school staff despite the challenging circumstances. They are committed to reducing physical and verbal abuse, providing a safe working environment for their employees in schools. The ongoing efforts aim to address the growing concerns and provide a supportive environment for teachers and staff to carry out their responsibilities without fear of violence or threats. The rise in incidents has had a detrimental impact on the learning environment, with potential consequences for the mental well-being and retention of teachers.