More than 25% of NI teachers 'attacked by pupils'

A teaching union in the North claims that more than a quarter of education staff have been physically assaulted by pupils.

The Association of Teachers and Lecturers has said that over a third were confronted by an aggressive parent or guardian.

Cases of pushing and shoving, punching and kicking were all recorded, and some teachers suffered mental health problems and lost confidence as a result of abuse from children.

The survey questioned over 1,000 staff in schools and colleges about behavioural issues.