THE routine explosion of violence in this region's classrooms is shocking.
According to a survey, half of the all teachers in the West Midlands have been physically assaulted by pupils.
The figures include a small but significant number who have been stabbed or threatened with knives or guns.
This is a situation that cannot be tolerated.
Men and women who are seeking to do their best so that youngsters can fulfil their potential deserve every protection.
Schools must be given all the support they need to protect their staff and demonstrate to pupils that violence is not acceptable.