Four out of every five school leaders in Wales have reported being subjected to abuse by parents within the past year, a disturbing survey has revealed. According to the survey conducted by the school leaders’ union NAHT, verbal abuse was the most commonly reported form of mistreatment, with 78% of respondents stating they had experienced it. Threatening behaviour was also prevalent, with 64% of school leaders reporting such incidents. Additionally, 39% of those surveyed faced online abuse, while 18% encountered discriminatory language, including racist, sexist, or homophobic remarks.
The poll highlighted that more than one in ten school leaders (12%) in Wales had been victims of physical violence. The issue of school violence gained significant attention following an attack on two teachers in Ammanford, leading to calls for increased protection for educators. The survey results shed light on the widespread prevalence of trolling on social media platforms and within parent groups, as well as instances of hate campaigns, harassment, and intimidation.
The abusive behaviour experienced by school leaders has taken a toll on their well-being, with some contemplating leaving a profession they are passionate about due to the abuse they endure. Anxiety, depression, and panic attacks were reported as common repercussions of the mistreatment. The survey found that nearly a third (31%) of school leaders faced abuse from parents on a monthly basis, with 14% experiencing such incidents weekly. Many school leaders shared their distressing experiences, with one recounting receiving frequent abusive emails from parents without regard for civility.
Laura Doel, the national secretary for NAHT Cymru, expressed deep concern over the emerging trend of verbal and physical abuse directed at school leaders in Welsh schools. She stressed that such behaviour is unacceptable and called for local authorities to collaborate with the union to strengthen complaints procedures and combat abusive conduct. NAHT’s general secretary, Paul Whiteman, acknowledged the majority of parental support for schools but raised alarm over the increasing instances of abuse towards school leaders. He emphasised the damaging impact of such mistreatment on educators and called for respectful communication from parents.
The union’s No Excuse for Abuse campaign aims to address and prevent the mistreatment of school leaders within the education sector. The campaign underscores the importance of fostering a culture of respect and support for educators. Whiteman highlighted the detrimental effects of abuse on school leaders, staff, and students, underscoring the urgent need for a shift towards constructive dialogue and collaboration between schools and parents.
The survey findings underscore the imperative to safeguard the well-being of school leaders and cultivate safe and nurturing environments within educational institutions. The union’s call for enhanced protection and support for educators reflects a commitment to addressing the systemic challenges posed by parental abuse towards school leaders. The campaign advocates for mutual respect, professionalism, and collaboration to ensure a positive educational experience for all stakeholders involved.