Union warns of 'epidemic of violence'

Figures obtained by the GMB union showed there were more than 500 attacks carried out by pupils on teaching assistants and support staff in Bradford's primary schools and special schools over 18 months.

The union said the figures were "shocking", especially involving young children, and called for urgent action.

Incidents included biting, kicking, headbutting, chairs being thrown and staff being stabbed with pencils.

"There is a hidden epidemic of violence in our schools which is not being dealt with. The problem appears to be getting worse," said Neil Derrick, a GMB official from Yorkshire. Speaking at the union's annual conference in Southport yesterday, he said the severity of the violence had shocked staff and officials.

The GMB called for councils to publish figures for verbal and physical attacks in all schools across the country.

Ray Alderman, a delegate from Bradford, told the conference: "We want the Government to pressurise local authorities to offer better support to our members and to work to reduce them in the first place."