Aberdeen rally held against classroom violence

A crowd of teaching staff and pupil support staff gathered outside Marischal College for a rally against rising classroom violence.

The peaceful protest, hosted by GMB Union, was attended by other unions who represent roles in education including EIS, Unison and Unite.

Workers chanted "stop the violence" whilst speakers demanded change from Aberdeen City Council.

David Willis, convenor for GMB's Aberdeen branch, said the demonstration was held in response to member's requests about the "increasing levels of violence that they are facing in schools settings, which they are finding unacceptable.

"We can't allow the situation that is in Aberdeen city at the moment - which is some of our members are scared to go into their work in the mornings. They are fearful.

"Some of them are hiding bruises from their family members who are concerned about them and it's just an unacceptable situation.

"Enough is enough this group of staff will not put up with what they have had to experience up until now. They want their voices heard and now is the time to take action and for their employer to ensure - as far as reasonably practical - their safety in the workplace."

Rising classroom violence

GMB union, who represent pupil support staff, published a survey earlier this month which revealed out of 100 Aberdeen members who responded, 98% reported witnessing or suffering violence or verbal abuse.

Additionally, 73% of the workers do not feel safe at work with suggestions there is not enough protection provided.

Workers in the city told the union they have been kicked, punched, spat on, bitten, head butted and sexually assaulted.

This survey followed on from EIS' report which surveyed 774 of its Aberdeen members, with 38% reporting being physically assaulted by pupils.

Several councillors turned up to the rally including the Convenor for Education in Aberdeen, Councillor Martin Greig, who stressed it is "vital to continue to listen to everyone affected by the issue of behaviour in schools. We have to keep on working together to ensure that every school environment is peaceful and respectful."

Collaborative talks

Last week, Aberdeen's EIS branch announced they have been taking part in "collaborative and collegiate talks" with Aberdeen City Council to address issues raised in its report.

The union said it recognises the level of challenge ahead, but is now working with stakeholders across the board to draft an action plan.

Speaking about the rally today, Ron Constable, branch secretary for Aberdeen EIS, said: "Trade union rallies have the effect of bringing members together and building enthusiasm.

"We're very clear that while we're working collaboratively with Aberdeen City Council to develop an action plan - we're very clear that these are broad brush strokes on a piece of paper.

"The real detail has to be ironed out at branch level and school level and in work groups that we hope are going to be set up."

The local authority said it is working alongside trade unions to come up with an action plan to tackle the issue of pupil violence in schools.

An Aberdeen City Council Spokesperson said: “The safety of everyone in our schools remains our top priority. Education officers have been meeting with the EIS and other trade unions to agree a shared action plan.

"The plan will be presented to the Education and Children’s Services Committee next month. The Council very much appreciates the time being invested in the co-production of the plan.”