Rennie: Will another 77 pages of school violence guidance change anything?

Responding to the publication of new Scottish Government guidance aimed at addressing the risk of violence in schools and the consequences for when it occurs, Scottish Liberal Democrat education spokesperson Willie Rennie MSP said:

“This report is not only late but is unlikely to be read by many. It was supposed to be a report on consequences to give teachers the backing and the tools they need but the section on consequences is stuck in the appendix after 77 pages of process.

“After clear evidence that violence is on the rise in schools, this report will do little to change the experience for pupils and staff.

“Teachers don’t have the in-class support they need and too many pupils are feeling afraid about going to school. Ministers need to demonstrate that all their plans are having an effect and that they will be backed by the resources necessary to actually reduce the shocking level of violence in our schools.

“Instead, we need a clear statement to empower teachers and give them the resources and specialist support. “