Violent incidents in Scotland’s schools have more than doubled since the 2021 Holyrood election, according to new figures obtained by Scottish Labour.
Data gathered through freedom of information requests to local councils shows a sharp rise in recorded incidents across both primary and secondary schools.
In secondary schools, the number of violent incidents surged by 182 per cent — rising from 2,413 in 2021-22 to 6,809 in 2024-25. Primary schools also saw a significant increase, with cases climbing by 113 per cent from 12,075 to 25,770 over the same period.
Scottish Labour said the figures point to a growing crisis in school safety, with education spokesman Paul O’Kane criticising the government’s response.
“John Swinney sat on his hands while violence in Scotland’s schools reached crisis point,” he said.
“Scottish Labour will fix the SNP’s mess and tackle this crisis at last.”
He added that Labour would introduce measures aimed at improving discipline and safety in schools.
“From banning phones in classrooms to boosting the number of campus cops, we will make schools safe places to learn and give kids the education they deserve.”
The Scottish Government acknowledged the issue but insisted action is already being taken to address behaviour in schools.
“There is no place for violence in Scotland’s schools,” a spokesperson said.
“We have been working with partners, including Cosla and teaching unions, to implement the relationships and behaviour in schools action plan to address the current challenges.”
The figures come amid growing concern from teachers and parents about behaviour in classrooms, with calls for stronger measures to ensure a safe learning environment for pupils across Scotland.