Weapons Discovered in Cardiff Schools During Searches
Weapons were found in almost two-thirds of searches conducted at Cardiff schools over a six-month period, according to newly released data.
The NASUWT teachers' union described the statistics as "frightening."
A Freedom of Information (FoI) request, shared with the BBC-produced Newyddion S4C, revealed that 12 out of 19 searches carried out between September 2025 and March 2026 uncovered weapons on pupils.
Cardiff council emphasized that ensuring the safety of staff and pupils on educational premises remains "a priority."
Concerns Raised by Medical Student and Volunteer
Millie-Mae Adams, a medical student and volunteer with the StreetDoctors charity, characterized the issue of young people carrying weapons as an "emergency" and "a big problem."
"The number will surprise people generally, but by talking to young people, it doesn't surprise me.
"I know young people have this idea that they're protecting themselves by carrying it [a weapon] but that isn't true."
Adams, who grew up in Caerau, Cardiff, stated that violence and the threat of violence influenced her decision to pursue a medical career.
She expressed hope that her involvement with StreetDoctors can help dissuade young people from carrying weapons.
"I think that number would be much higher if you looked at all schools in Wales - on the streets people are carrying weapons and knives," she said.
New Measures Implemented by Cardiff Council
In September last year, Cardiff Council introduced new guidance regarding weapons in schools and educational sites.
Hand-held scanners were deployed to every school in the county, enabling staff to search pupils suspected of carrying weapons.
A council spokesperson explained,
"If there is reasonable suspicion that a young person may be carrying a weapon, schools have the legal power to carry out a search, which is done discreetly, proportionately and with clear explanations provided to the young person and parents or carers are informed following any search."
Details from Freedom of Information Request
The FoI request disclosed that 19 searches for weapons took place in Cardiff schools between September 2025 and March 2026, with weapons found in 12 instances and no weapons discovered in seven searches.
Union Response to Findings
Sion Amlyn, policy and case officer for the NASUWT teachers' union, commented on the data, stating,
"If one weapon was found, it would be one too many, so the fact that this appears to be increasing is frightening...[and the] fact that there are multiple cases is concerning.
No weapons should be in our schools, they should be safe spaces for our children and our staff and the figures suggest they might not be."
Council's Approach Following Weapon Discoveries
The council reported that no permanent expulsions resulted from the 19 searches and 12 weapons found in schools.
It also noted that comparable data from previous years is unavailable.
A spokesperson added,
"Where a weapon is found, a multi-agency incident review meeting is arranged to understand the circumstances and agree appropriate support.
The young person does not return to the education setting until this meeting has taken place, which happens within five school days, with daily welfare checks maintained in the meantime.
Parents and carers are involved, and a trauma informed approach is used to identify the right support and help the young person remain in education wherever possible.
This consistent approach reflects Cardiff's commitment to prevention, early intervention and keeping schools safe while supporting young people to make positive changes."
