Guidance and data on violence against teachers in schools: FOI release

Information requested

1. Is there a definition for what constitutes violence against teachers in schools?

2. What is the Scottish Government's recommendation for a teacher or classroom assistant to navigate physical abuse?

3. Are there year groups within schools that exhibit the worst levels of physical violence against teaching staff?

Response

1. Is there a definition for what constitutes violence against teachers in schools?

The Scottish Government’s guidance for schools on risk assessments for violent, aggressive and dangerous behaviour refers to the Health and Safety Executive definition of violence: “Any incident in which a person is abused, threatened, or assaulted in circumstances relating to their work.” This can include physical attacks, verbal abuse, including face to face, online and via telephone.

Under section 25(1) of FOISA, we do not have to give you information which is already reasonably accessible to you. If, however, you do not have internet access to obtain this information from the website(s) listed, then please contact me again and I will send you a paper copy.

2. What is the Scottish Government's recommendation for a teacher or classroom assistant to navigate physical abuse?

The Scottish Government does not have the information you have asked for because the Scottish Government does not recommend particular actions for a teacher or classroom assistant to deal with physical abuse. The actions that a teacher or classroom assistant should take in responding to physical abuse will be established locally in light of local circumstances and context.

As such, I hereby provide you with formal notice under section 17(1) of FOISA that the Scottish Government does not have the information you have requested.

However, you may find it helpful know the Scottish Government has guidance for schools to inform local decision making. This includes:

• Fostering a positive, inclusive and safe school environment
• Risk Assessments for violence, aggressive and dangerous behaviour
• Included, Engaged and Involved Part 2: a positive approach to preventing and managing school exclusions
• Included, Engaged and Involved Part 3: a relationships and rights-based approach to physical intervention in schools

3. Are there year groups within schools that exhibit the worst levels of physical violence against teaching staff?

The Behaviour in Scottish Schools Research 2023 found the proportion of staff encountering physical violence towards them or other staff in the classroom was highest amongst those teaching primary 1-3, followed by primary 4-7, then secondary staff. Full details of this research can be accessed within the Behaviour in Scottish Schools Research 2023.

Under section 25(1) of FOISA, we do not have to give you information which is already reasonably accessible to you. If, however, you do not have internet access to obtain this information from the website(s) listed, then please contact me again and I will send you a paper copy.

About FOI

The Scottish Government is committed to publishing all information released in response to Freedom of Information requests. View all FOI responses at https://www.gov.scot/foi-responses.