Politicians and teachers’ unions are fuming at the “startling” revelation that dozens of students have been suspended after guns were confiscated from schools.
An investigation found that children aged seven to 16 were found in 191 cases with potentially fatal objects, including 37 knives.
An investigation found 191 times children aged seven to 16 were found with potentially deadly objects
Scottish Tory shadow education secretary Stephen Kerr called on the SNP government to help schools solve the problem.
He said: “Our schools should be gun-free and it is clear that school staff and other students could be seriously injured if those guns had not been confiscated.
“These numbers are frightening for students, teachers and parents.
“SNP ministers must fully resource our schools and ensure they are not exposed to these dangerous threats.”
The shocking statistics from last January to 27 January this year were released following a freedom of information request to all 32 Scottish councils.
Among the 37 knives were a butterfly training knife, several kitchen knives and a bisturi – a type of surgical blade.
Other items collected included penknives, non-metallic blades, scissors, screwdrivers and a chisel that was used to injure a child.
Two seven-year-olds who had a knife and a ball-bearing pistol were reported to police.
Mr Kerr’s call for urgent action was echoed by the teachers’ union NASUWT.
A spokesman said: “Tackling the problem of violence cannot be left to schools alone.
“This problem has its roots in wider society and requires a concerted approach by police, government, local authorities and schools.”
A Police Scotland spokesman said: “One gun in a school is too many.
“We will continue to do everything we can to educate and support young people when it comes to tackling difficult issues.”
ILLEGAL PROCUREMENT IN SCHOOLS
THE illegal loot in schools included:
- 37 knives
- 9 pen knives
- 8 scissors
- 4 BB guns
- 3 pellet guns
- 3 non-metallic knives
- 2 screwdrivers
- 2 Sharpened Fishing Tackle
- 2 pieces of plastic/mirror
- 1 surgical knife
- 1 lighter
- 1 chisel
- 1 hammer
- 1 4ft plank of wood
- 1 sharpened ruler
Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said the Scottish Government had produced guidance to help schools and councils deal with the threat.
She added: “We are taking steps to work with young people to prevent violence and harm.
“We are making available over £2million in 2022-23 to support initiatives aimed at preventing assault weapons and violence among young people.”