Teachers in Aberdeen are experiencing traumatic levels of violence, causing fear for their safety and reluctance to go to work. According to a report by BBC News, many educators in the city have expressed concern about escalating pupil violence. The EIS union is calling for urgent intervention by Aberdeen City Council to address the issue.
An EIS survey of nearly 800 members in the city found that almost half reported violent pupil behavior in school every day, and more than a third said they had been physically assaulted. This alarming situation has left many teachers traumatized and fearful for their safety.
In interviews with BBC Scotland News, three teachers from Aberdeen shared their experiences anonymously. An additional support needs teacher revealed that she had suffered a concussion and was pushed and fell backwards during an incident. Another secondary school teacher described her workplace as “the worst she had seen in her 20-year career,” expressing fear for her safety and the lack of control in the school environment. A primary school teacher also shared experiences of having to evacuate her classroom several times in one week due to pupils’ behavior.
The EIS union claims that incidents of violence are being under-reported and that the use of school exclusions for students involved in violent behavior is “frowned upon” by the local authority.
Ron Constable, joint secretary of the Aberdeen EIS branch, emphasized the need for more action to support teachers, warning of potential “collective grievances” if the problems are not taken seriously. He noted that two years ago, teachers at Northfield Academy in the city voted in favor of industrial action over pupil violence, though this was ultimately avoided after meetings with the council.
In response, the council’s education convener Martin Greig acknowledged the unacceptable nature of misbehavior in schools and assured that the authority would consider all feedback from staff. He also stressed the importance of a safe and peaceful environment for everyone involved in the life of a school, including staff, families, and students.
Historically, this issue has been ongoing and has led to concern about the well-being and safety of teachers in Aberdeen schools. It is crucial for the council to take decisive action to address the escalating violence and provide the necessary support for staff.
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