Police probe alleged school incident

A SCHOOLBOY from a Scots high school has been accused of firing a “lit aerosol” spray towards a teacher.

Police confirmed a 15-year-old from the school in West Dunbartonshire, which cannot be named for legal reasons, was reported for allegations of culpable and reckless conduct.

Officers say there were no reports of any injuries.

A spokeswoman for West Dunbartonshire Council said: “We do not tolerate violence or aggression towards any of our employees and offer BY ANDREW McNAIR support to anyone affected in this way.

“All incidents of violent behaviour are treated seriously with appropriate action taken, including involving the police.”

Jim Halfpenny, of the West Dunbartonshire branch of the Educational Institute of Scotland union, said he was alarmed by the reports.

He told our sister paper the Lennox Herald: “I am greatly distressed at reports of this alleged incident and continue to be concerned at any level of violence towards school staff, verbal or physical, from pupils or parents.

“While the majority of pupils are never involved in confrontations with staff, a small number can often find school organisation challenging and this, at times, can lead to conflict.”

Police Scotland sergeant Brian Gibson said: “Around 2.55pm on December 14, police were called to a West Dunbartonshire high school after an allegation a pupil had fired a lit aerosol spray in the direction of a teacher.

“A 15-year-old male has been reported to the Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration.”