MSPs have been briefed on teachers in Scotland reporting an increase in violence they receive from pupils ahead of Scotland’s first national summit on behaviour in schools tomorrow.
NASUWT-The Teachers’ Union, who commissioned the report which is being seen by MSPs, is calling for unambiguous backing to be given to schools in taking appropriate sanctions, including expulsions, for violent and abusive behaviour.
Nearly four in ten teachers reported experiencing violence or physical abuse from pupils in the previous 12 months. This included being spat at, headbutted, punched, kicked, and having furniture including chairs being thrown at them.
The briefing also contains 10 recommendations from the union to MSPs which includes strengthening national guidance on behaviour management, ensuring all schools have a behaviour management policy and establishing a consistent system monitoring, recording and responding to instances of violence.
The union also want MSPs to commission independent research into the causes of poor behaviour, including whether it stems from the pandemic, and ensure appropriate support is available to staff who experience abuse from pupils.
It comes after sustained pressure by the union for action on the increased instances of violence and abuse in Scotland’s schools.
