The violence against teachers is no longer just a potential risk. It is a growing concern worldwide. Recent years have shown us an alarming number of teacher assaults in schools. In the form of verbal threats, physical violence, or stalking in or out of the school.

These behaviours break the trust within school communities. Disrupt the learning process. And leave lasting scars on those affected.

At Wihkum, we believe that school safety is non-negotiable. That’s why, we developed an innovative app to empower teachers and other staff. With our GPS tracking, geofencing, and a streamlined reporting system. You can easily tackle any security issue.

Let’s explore this critical issue. And discuss how security systems like Wihkum can help you. To create a safer environment for everyone in the school community.

What is Violence Against Teachers?

Violence against teachers refers to any harmful act against educators. It includes all forms of aggression or intimidation. Like:

  • Physical Assaults:

Hitting, pushing, or any use of force. It also includes the use of weapons against the teachers.

  • Verbal Abuse:

Threats, insults, and yelling. Any disrespectful remarks that undermine a teacher’s authority.

  • Harassment and Stalking:

Persistent and intrusive behaviours. Like following teachers outside school or targeting them online.

  • Cyberbullying:

Students or parents spreading defamatory content about teachers. It can be on social media or via text messages.

Other minor forms can include frustrated parents lashing out during meetings.

Such behaviour not only endangers the victim. But also undermines the educational process and upbringing of students. The phenomenon reflects deeper societal issues. Like inadequate conflict resolution skills and a lack of respect for educators.

Teacher Assaults in Schools | Concerning Numbers

The statistics on public school teacher assaults reveal an alarming trend. We have compiled the data from the previous year around the world. And it revealed the highly disturbing facts.

CountryIncidents of Teacher Assaults in SchoolsSource
Australia75% of school principals have faced violence and abuse from students.ABC News
United States12% of educators received verbal threats or physical assaultsCase Guard
United Kingdom13% of teachers are physically assaulted by pupils 28% are abused verballyEvening Standards
Canada77% of public elementary teachers experienced or witnessed violence against staff members. 42% have suffered physical or psychological injuries due to assault attacks.Durham Radio News
FranceA teacher was stabbed to death by a pupil.BBC World News
New ZealandTeachers report escalating assault rates from students and demand immediate action.Stuff, New Zealand

Western Australian schools are no exception from violence cases. If we talk about WA specifically. There were 2,756 incidents of assault or physical threats against public school staff. According to the reports received by the Department of Education in 2023. (Source: The Opposition Alliance)

These numbers highlight the urgent need for preventative measures. And raising awareness about school security policies offered by the government and legislation.

Offences Regarding Assaults on Teachers

Violence in schools is not just an ethical issue but also a legal one. In countries like Australia, Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws mandate that schools must address risks related to workplace violence.

Crimes Act 1900 of the Australian legislature contains serious penalties against teacher assault. Some important offences in this regard are given below.

OffenceMaximum Penalty
Assaulting, stalking, harassing, or intimidating any student or staff member in school premises.5 years imprisonment
Assaulting a school student or staff member & causing any bodily harm.7 years imprisonment
Wounding a fellow student or school staff member with hatred or injury intent.12 years imprisonment
Causing serious bodily harm to a school student or staff member.12 years imprisonment
Entering school premises with the intent to commit the above offences.5 years imprisonment

If schools fail to protect teachers from violence. They will have to face severe penalties, legal action and reputational damage. So, school administrators must comply with the law. Make sure that these incidents are controlled on time. And foster a culture of respect and safety.

Administrative Strategies to Minimise Teacher Assaults in Schools

Creating a safe school environment requires a long-term and multifactoral approach. Here are some strategies for the school administration.

1. Educating the Children

The best way to stop these incidents is to prevent them before happening. And prevention always starts with education. Schools should focus on behaviours & upbringing of students along with education. They should incorporate following lessons into curriculum.

  • Empathy
  • Respect of teachers
  • conflict resolution

Anti-bullying campaigns and peer mediation programmes also help. So, a culture of kindness and mutual understanding can develop.

2. Training of Teachers

Professional development programmes should be arranged. So, the teachers can be ready for any unfortunate situation both physically & mentally.

Teachers & other staff should be trained with:

  • De-escalation techniques
  • Self-defence skills
  • Strategies to handle disruptive behaviours
  • First Aid Training

Regular training creates a secure and confident air among the staff.

3. Easy Reporting of Incidents

The first and prior step of security arrangements is making the reporting easy. Because, if the teachers can safely and openly report violence on time. Immediate measures can be taken and any grave result can be avoided.

Tools like the Wihkum app simplify this process. Allowing teachers to log incidents with a few clicks. Timely reporting also helps identify the recurring patterns of aggression.

4. Use of Physical Force by Administration

Restraint should always be a last resort. However, trained individuals can intervene physically when a situation becomes alarming. They can be in the form of:

  • School guards
  • Trained staff members

Schools must make sure that such interventions are ready when needed. But they should be in line with legal standards and not escalate any harm.

5. Getting Help from Security Institutions

Extreme situations can’t be handled by the school administration alone. That’s why, partnering with security agencies or consulting experts is essential. It can strengthen a school’s safety framework. And also save it from legal troubles.

Schools should also make everyone aware of such partnerships to create a secure air. And keep the needed helplines accessible to everyone.

6. Use of an Advanced Security System

Modern security systems are game-changers for school security. Because they provide an immediate and transparent system to cope with emergencies.

Technologies like Wihkum integrate GPS, geofencing, and instant notifications. And provide comprehensive protection to staff and students. When the help button is pressed, nearby responders are alerted. And the victim can see where help is coming from in real-time.

Also Read: Ensuring Teacher Safety in Schools | Wihkum’s Safety Measures

How Wihkum Supports Safer Schools

The Wihkum app uses advance technology to revolutionise school safety. And enable teachers to access help at the push of a button. It offers the following security features.

  • Quick Setup: The app can be made fully operational within two hours of configuration.
  • Customisable Features: Schools can customise the app’s settings to their specific needs. E.g. help tones and scheduling.
  • Scheduling: Schools can also schedule their working times along with exceptional days. E.g. vacations or public holidays.
  • Geofencing: It defines the school’s safety perimeter with help of GPS. And tracks any incidents within designated zones.
  • Easy Help Activation: Whenever a staff member or teacher feel threatened. He can press the help button & trained staff will be notified.
  • Real-Time Assistance: Its GPS technology tracks and pinpoints the exact location of incident. So, a swift and accurate response can be made.
  • Responders’ Location: The person who activated help is also notified about the real time location of responders. So, he can keep calm.
  • Record Keeping: All the details of the incident are recorded on the spot. To help in any sort of legal trouble.

By incorporating such advanced system in thwir security plan. Schools cannot only protect their staff. But also fulfil their legal obligations to maintain a safe working environment.

Conclusion

Violence against teachers is a grave issue that demands immediate attention. Because the safety of teachers is integral to the future of students and schools. Incidents of assaults and violence against teachers are increasing day by day.

This challenge should be addressed with proper policies. Preventive education. And training sessions for teachers. School security systems should be strong and transparent enough to tackle any emergency. You can also get aid from advanced technology solutions like the Wihkum app.

Is Your School Prepared to Handle Any Form of Violence Against Teachers?

Choose Wihkum to Deal with Teacher Assaults in School

Don’t wait for a crisis to prioritise safety. With Wihkum, your school can prevent and respond to incidents swiftly and effectively.

Our app provides educators with a reliable and easy-to-use tool. That can enhance school security, improve reporting, and protect lives.

Download Wihkum App Now

Enquire About Our Services