An NASUWT member has secured £8,500 in compensation following an assault at work while employed as a teacher in a specialist educational setting.

The member was injured during the course of her working day when she was stuck on the head by a pupil. The incident occurred after concerns had already been raised with senior management about the pupil’s behaviour and the risks posed to staff. Despite this, appropriate safeguards were not in place.

As a result of the assault, the member sustained injuries to her neck and ears, including perforated eardrums, as well as psychological injury. She required medical treatment and ongoing support, and the injuries affected her day‑to‑day life and wellbeing. She also found it difficult to return to the site where the incident occurred and ultimately moved to alternative employment.

A claim was pursued by Thompsons Solicitors on behalf of the union member. Breach of duty was admitted in January 2025, following which the defendant agreed to fund both physiotherapy and CBT treatment to aid the member’s recovery.  Independent medical evidence was then obtained and a schedule of loss prepared.

The case concluded with a settlement of £8,500, reflecting both the physical and psychological impact of the assault.

Cases such as this highlight the importance of proper risk assessment, supervision and staffing levels in challenging educational environments, as well as the vital role played by trade unions in supporting members who are injured at work.

Through their union-backed legal service, NASUWT members can pursue justice and retain 100% of their compensation, with no deduction for legal costs.