A surge in knife and weapon use in Scottish schools has led a martial arts instructor and former door supervisor to call for greater education in schools and youth centres about the danger of carrying a knife.
Mark Davies, who runs the Arbroath’s Best Defence martial arts studio , spoke out after it was revealed across Scotland in 2016/2017, there were 311 instances of a pupil being excluded for using a weapon to assault another pupil or member of staff, and a further 428 incidents involving improvised weapons.
The 739 total is an increase from 661 incidents recorded in 2014/2015.
Mr Davies, whose work in deterring young people from carrying a blade has been featured on TV and recognised in the Scottish Parliament said: “As someone with years of experience as a door supervisor, often in some less than popular areas, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen a knife pulled out and used.
“The results can be horrific and life-changing, and not just for the victim – the knock-on consequences for the assailant can last a lifetime.
“Although knife crime is a national, issue, I firmly believe that the solution has to be local – and that means having someone with experience of blade use, who is not necessarily an authority figure such as a teacher or uniformed police officer, engaging with pupils and explaining just how serious a situation becomes when a blade is involved.
“I firmly believe that there is a lack of effective life skills, self-esteem and anti-bullying programmes, and this failure is, in my view, a contributory factor in the rise of incidents where weapons are used.”
In 2017, four police officers disarmed a female pupil at Websters High School in Kirriemuir who was armed with a knife in school.
Mr Davies discussed the issue with Angus Council’s vice convener of children and learning, Arbroath East and Lunan Conservative councillor Derek Wann.
Mr Wann said: “The recent statistics are deeply concerning, not just from a council perspective, but also speaking as a parent.
“Mr Davies clearly has considerable experience in working with young people, and I was delighted to be able to discuss this important issue with him.
“In light of these figures, and my discussion with Mr Davies, I will be speaking with council officers and the police about current efforts to tackle this, and see if more comprehensive and holistic approach can be utilised.
