Support Staff Raise Concerns Over Increasing Violence at Fraserburgh Academy
Support staff at Fraserburgh Academy in Aberdeenshire have expressed fears that the level of disruption and violence among pupils is escalating to a dangerous degree. They describe some days as "total mayhem," with incidents involving physical and verbal abuse towards teachers and other staff members.
Several support workers, speaking anonymously to BBC Scotland News, reported that some pupils frequently engage in disruptive behaviour, including throwing drinks bottles and littering food in school corridors. A group of approximately 20 to 30 students was described as "constantly terrorising" the corridors, running from teachers and swearing at them.
"There is a group of 20 to 30 pupils constantly terrorising the corridors - running from teachers, swearing at teachers,"
"They've absolutely no respect for discipline. Total mayhem some days."
Staff recounted incidents where teachers and other employees were slapped and spat on, with some female staff members left in tears. Additionally, some pupils have been observed blocking teachers' paths and holding classroom door handles from the outside to prevent staff from leaving.
"Things are escalating and could lead to a serious incident."
"We want to make it safe for our students. We want the students to get an education,"
Other reported issues include vandalism such as smashed toilet seats, missing soap dispensers, and frequent theft of toilet roll valued at approximately £7 daily. Classroom disruptions have involved thrown chairs and upturned tables.
Union Calls for New Action Plan Amid Staff Safety Concerns
The union Unison has stated that confidence in the school's current arrangements for managing pupil behaviour has "collapsed." Simon Watson, a regional officer for Unison, emphasized the severity of the situation.
"No worker should have to go out in the morning to face this level of violence and aggression."
Fifty-four staff members have signed a letter requesting a meeting with the local authority's education leaders to discuss these issues. However, Aberdeenshire Council has indicated that no such meeting is planned at this time.
Aberdeenshire Council Responds to Staff Concerns
A spokesperson for Aberdeenshire Council affirmed their commitment to providing a safe working environment for employees and stated that violence and aggression have no place in schools.
"We are committed to ensuring that our employees have a safe working environment and violence and aggression has no place in our schools."
The council noted that a meeting has been held to address concerns raised by pupil support assistants and other support staff. They are actively listening to staff feedback and intend to implement necessary changes.
Efforts have been made to standardize approaches to behaviour management, expectations, and reporting procedures throughout the school. Training on "positive approaches to managing behaviour" is being offered to staff, and plans are underway to establish a safety committee in the next term.
Context and Additional Information
Staff affected by violence include pupil support assistants (PSAs), janitors, and catering workers. Some have shared personal experiences of assaults, including one individual who reported having their nose broken twice. The issue of violence against teachers remains widespread and harmful, according to reports.
Despite the challenges, staff acknowledge the presence of many "amazing kids" at Fraserburgh Academy who are motivated to pursue education and future careers.
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