241 School Staff Reports Violent Injuries in 10 Years, 2,171 Take Assault Leave
In the past decade, 241 school staff reported violent injuries requiring three or more days off, with 2,171 taking assault leave since 2017. Injuries include broken bones and loss of consciousness, often from children with special needs. Unions and advocates call for more support and systemic changes to address unmet needs in schools.
Over the past decade, 241 reports of school staff being off work for three days or more due to violent injuries in schools were filed with the Health and Safety Authority (HSA). More than half of these incidents occurred in primary schools. Injuries included broken noses and jaws, loss of consciousness, nerve damage from biting, choking, headbutting, and one stabbing with a table knife.
Separately, Department of Education figures show 2,171 teachers and special needs assistants (SNAs) have utilized the Government's Leave of Absence following Assault scheme since its 2017 inception through 2025, totaling over 45,000 days. The majority of these assaults affected SNAs in primary schools. These incidents often stem from challenging behavior by children with special educational needs, which advocates attribute to unmet needs within the educational setting.
Union Fórsa, representing SNAs, highlights the lasting psychological effects of assaults and calls for more support beyond paid leave. The number of staff availing of assault leave has significantly increased, from 69 teachers in 2017 to 492 in 2025, possibly due to more SNAs, increased awareness of the scheme, or a rise in challenging behaviors. Inclusion Ireland CEO Derval McDonagh emphasizes the need for urgent systemic changes to adapt school environments to better suit children's needs.
The Department of Education states an Occupational Health Strategy and a 24/7 Employee Assistance service, including short-term counseling, are available to support school staff and their families.