Violence in Schools - Some Strategies to Tackle it

Educators are reporting a noticeable rise in violent behaviour among students, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Physical altercations, aggressive incidents, and conflict are becoming more common in schools, creating challenges for maintaining safe learning environments and student wellbeing.

A growing concern is the spill over of online conflicts into the school setting. Cyberbullying and social media disputes are increasingly becoming part of the school day, disrupting learning and challenging existing behaviour management frameworks. Another layer of complexity comes from the broader community context.

Educators are finding it increasingly difficult to reinforce anti-violence values when students may be receiving conflicting messages at home. This misalignment can undermine school efforts to promote respectful and safe environments.

Alarmingly, incidents of violence directed at teachers, school leaders, and staff are also on the rise. These events contribute to a culture of stress and risk that affects not just individuals, but the school community.

Often teachers will find themselves at a physical disadvantage in incidents of violence and need to know what to do when an altercation between two students or threats to themselves happen.

Jannine Jackson, CEO Sammy D Foundation which delivers anti violence programs to schools says, “When faced with an altercation or direct threat - especially for those who may feel physically vulnerable - it’s critical to remember: violence is never the answer to conflict. Effective responses don’t depend on physical strength; they rely on calm, clear communication and prioritizing safety.

“Most importantly: prioritize safety above all else. If the situation feels unsafe, exit calmly and seek immediate support from trusted adults or school leaders. Only when everyone is safe should conflict resolution strategies be implemented.”

Anyone who finds themselves in a violent or escalating situation can use the S.T.E.P response tactic. This tactic focuses on early intervention, safety, and de-escalation.
S - Spot the signs
Notice the early warning signs of conflict before things escalate - raised voices, body language, tension.
T - Take space
Walk away and help others do the same. Staying safe is the most important thing.
E - End the spectacle - don't film
Filming can escalate the situation and turn real harm into entertainment. Choose to end the spectacle instead of fuelling it.
P - Phone for help and Process

Recognising early signs of potential violence is crucial for timely intervention and prevention. Often, young people themselves may be aware of brewing conflict before adults are, especially when tensions originate online and spill into school life.
Some key warning signs include:
●    Verbal escalation - raised voice, swearing, threats, or insults directed at others.
●    Aggressive body language - standing tall, puffing up the chest, or making themselves appear larger and more intimidating.
●    Physical signs of tension - clenched fists, a stiff posture, trembling, or pacing.
●    Facial expressions - glaring, scowling, or other signs of visible anger or hostility.
●    Physiological responses - flushed face, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, or sweating.
●    Online behaviour and threats - messages or posts that suggest conflict, revenge, or aggression may foreshadow face-to-face violence.

By noticing and responding to these signs early - calmly and supportively - you can help de-escalate situations before they turn physical.

“If there’s one strategy to address rising violence and disrespect in schools, it’s this: embed core values deeply and consistently across the entire school community,” Jackson says.

“By intentionally teaching and reinforcing values like kindness, empathy, respect, and courage, schools can shape a positive social culture from the earliest years. When students understand the real-world impact of harmful behaviours - and develop the courage to stand up for what’s right, being an upstander - they become active participants in creating a safer, more respectful environment.

“This approach isn't about one-off lessons. It’s about making these values visible in classrooms, assemblies, playgrounds, and relationships - with both peers and adults. Over time, these values become the foundation of a school culture where positive behaviour is expected, reinforced, and upheld by students themselves.
Creating this kind of culture takes time, but it works - and it empowers students to be the change-makers.”

The Sammy D Foundation offers a range of educational programs in several formats to suit different school and community needs.

Image by Marek Pewniki