Jim Cunningham MP (Coventry South) yesterday questioned the Government as to the protection of teachers in the classroom.

During yesterday’s departmental questions Mr Cunningham asked the Government what initiatives the Government was planning to protect teachers from abuse and violence in the classroom.

Kevin Brennan MP* said, “We have taken initiatives to ensure that teachers have the authority to discipline pupils, including the confiscation of mobile phones, and to discipline pupils for behaviour beyond the school gate.

“We are determined to raise the bar, which includes asking Sir Alan Steer to conduct a review of the measures brought in as a result of his earlier review.

“There will be a report on an interim basis in the near future, and on a more detailed basis after that”.

Jim Cunningham said, “I welcome the Government efforts to make the classroom a safer place for both the teacher and the child.

“There have been a staggering number of incidents of abuse and violence in the classroom and something needs to be done about this.

“Safety of the teachers and children should remain a key priority for the Department of Children, Schools and Families.

“I await the interim report with great interest”.