FIGURES have revealed that around 25 violent or aggressive incidents took place every day in Fife schools last year.
The latest data was highlighted in an annual health and safety review which went to Fife Council’s Finance, Economy and Corporate Scrutiny Committee.
A total of 5,434 violent, aggression and threat incidents were recorded across the education service last year with 6,254 taking place across all council services.
The number of education-related incidents was up from 4,163 the previous year.
Councillor Peter Gulline, who represents Glenrothes North, Leslie and Markinch, expressed his concern at the figures.
“5434 in the last year – that is about 135 a week. That would be like 25 a day. Is this made up of the schools filling out the accident and incident report?
“Are these then investigated?”
Stevie Murray, HR Manager (Health and Safety & People Analytics), said the figures come from when they are first reported.
“We are involved in supporting the managers,” he said. “We do not necessarily investigate unless it is really complex. Most investigations will take place in the school.
“We are engaging with directorates and trade unions for tackling this increasing problem. It is not unique to Fife. Everyone can safely say that.
“It expands all across public services and while legislation is in place for certain areas, increased reporting helps us understand what is happening.
“The council is using more data to understand what is happening. We are taking forward a number of initiatives to combat the problem. It is not easy to solve. There is a societal issue we need to deal with.”
Councillors also heard that another there now 242 properties – compared to 207 the previous year – on the Violent Marker System which records addresses of individuals where employees may be at risk during home visits or remote working.
The risks are being managed through an SOS fob and two-person visits.
In 2025/26, there were 20 recorded fire incidents on Fife Council premises which resulted in minor damage with no injuries.
Wilful fire raising was the most common cause of fire with 12 incidents including six which were set by pupils in toilets.
Two bin lorry fires were “likely” to have been caused by lithium-ion batteries and ongoing communication is being used to highlight safe use and disposal.
The report also highlighted a “slight decrease” in the cost of employer liability claim settlements in 2025/26 from £1.052m to £1.010m.
It said maintaining a “positive health and safety culture” remained essential to preventing harm, reducing avoidable incidents
“The number of claims closed during the year reduced from 58 to 45, 11 of which were closed where no responsibility was found against Fife Council,” it added.
There were six claims over working conditions which saw £271,008.94 paid out, seven single-claim causes which resulted in payments totalling £290,701.76, there were 10 trip/slip claims totalling £166,586.40 and 11 assault submissions which saw £126,271.75 paid out.
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