Officers patrol school corridors following ‘ten years of deteriorating behaviour’

Police officers have been deployed at a school in Scotland following an increase in anti-social behaviour from a “small minority of pupils”. A “zero tolerance” action plan was created after a spate of incidents in recent months at Hawick High School, which the local council said had already improved the school environment. Police Scotland said officers will be patrolling corridors, and engaging with staff and pupils on a daily basis in the run-up to Christmas. Scottish Borders Council is also set to draft in four new youth workers and an extra deputy head. A Scottish Borders Council spokesperson said: “Police Scotland has been working closely over the past two weeks to implement an action plan to tackle recent anti-social behaviour displayed by a very small minority of pupils in the school and wider community and implement a zero-tolerance approach.” In a letter, Donna Manson, Scottish Borders Council’s service director for children and young people, said: “From time to time there is some poor behaviour displayed by a minority of pupils, both within the school campus and in the local community. “I am aware that there have been concerns voiced on social media regarding some anti-social behaviour in the school and wish to reassure you that, in close partnership with the police, social work and youth workers, we are making rapid progress in eliminating this unacceptable behaviour. “This involves the support of local police, on and off the school campus, and close engagement with families where appropriate.” Hawick and Denholm Councillor Clair Ramage said she has been approached by several concerned pupils, parents and staff about the unrest. “These issues are a culmination of ten years of deteriorating behaviour,” she added. “When I first started teaching in the school, we worked as a team, and it was clear how behavioural issues were handled. “There was a system within departments, and you were supported by guidance, deputes and the headteacher if issues had to be moved on. “Since I left the school, many experienced teachers have also left, and, on speaking to them, it was about the continued deteriorating behaviour.” Inspector Carol Wood added: “As part of our continued engagement with local schools within Hawick, a number of issues relating to the conduct and actions of a small number of pupils at Hawick High School were raised. “To address these issues, officers have been deployed to the school and will engage with staff and pupils on a daily basis to deter offences and assure that any matters, which arise are suitably dealt with.”