The alarming rise in violence against educators in the UK is drawing significant concern, particularly from teachers working with students who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). A harrowing account from Michelle Stone, a former head teacher in Hampshire who suffered life-altering injuries during an attack by a student, underscores the urgent need for reform and support in schools. As assaults on teaching staff escalate, many fear for their safety and the future of their profession.
A Personal Tragedy
Michelle Stone’s teaching career was irrevocably altered when a student with a history of severe behavioural issues attacked her, resulting in debilitating spinal injuries, broken ribs, and a fractured collarbone. Stone described her experience as being reduced to a “shell” of her former self. Despite raising concerns about the student’s violent tendencies prior to the incident—including previous assaults on staff—her requests to relocate the student were ignored. “I was in an impossible situation—one that was preventable,” she lamented.
The escalation of violence in schools is not an isolated incident. Stone’s experience reflects a broader trend, as many teachers are increasingly leaving the profession due to safety concerns. The former head teacher is determined to advocate for change to protect her colleagues and ensure that no one else endures a similar fate.
Statistics Paint a Grim Picture
Evidence supporting Stone’s claims is found in Health and Safety Executive (HSE) statistics, which reveal a worrying increase in reported injuries from violent acts against school staff. In the central south of England, the number of assaults has risen significantly over the past decade, with reported incidents climbing from 37 in 2015/16 to 98 in 2024/25. In total, 649 staff members reported injuries in the last ten years, including fractures and other serious injuries.
In 2025 alone, data from the Department for Education indicated that there were 17,066 suspensions or permanent exclusions due to students physically assaulting adults in schools across various counties. Alarmingly, a national survey by the teaching union NASUWT found that 20% of teachers reported being physically assaulted, with 60% of those working in SEND environments experiencing similar violence.
The Role of SEND in School Violence
The increasing challenges faced by educators are exacerbated by the SEND crisis, according to workplace assault expert Joanne Soccard. She noted that her office receives numerous injury claims from teachers each month, predominantly from SEND provision schools. While she emphasised that aggression is not inherent in SEND children, there is a clear correlation between unmet needs and violent incidents.
The current educational system, which often fails to meet the specific requirements of SEND students, may be contributing to rising aggression. According to Professor Umar Toseeb from the University of York, children with SEND can experience overwhelming environments, particularly when their needs are inadequately addressed. “When you have an unmet need, it escalates and compounds,” he explained, suggesting that timely identification and intervention could mitigate potential violence.
Calls for Change and Support
In light of the escalating violence, calls for reform are becoming increasingly urgent. Michelle Stone, who received a substantial compensation settlement following her injuries, advocates for systemic changes to ensure that teachers are supported and protected. Many educators share her concerns, fearing both physical harm and the potential for blame in the event of a student’s outburst.
The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) echoed these sentiments, stressing that educators should not have to endure violence in their workplaces. A spokesperson for the Department for Education acknowledged the unacceptable nature of violence against teachers and outlined government initiatives aimed at tackling the issue, including the establishment of 93 Attendance and Behaviour Hubs to address root causes and increased training for teachers working with SEND students.
Why it Matters
The rise in violence against teachers not only jeopardises the safety and well-being of educators but also threatens the quality of education that students receive. As more teachers leave the profession due to these alarming trends, the educational landscape may become increasingly unstable, particularly for vulnerable students who rely heavily on support from dedicated professionals. Addressing these issues with urgency and compassion is essential—not only to protect educators but to ensure a nurturing and effective learning environment for all students.
