Newly released figures show that almost 100 violent incidents were logged in council-run schools in Helensburgh and Lomond over the latest two-year period covered by a Freedom of Information request.
Overview of the data
The FOI response indicates that, by 18 March 2026, there had been a total of 200 incidents recorded in the 2025/26 school year to date, compared with 176 the previous year. Across Argyll and Bute as a whole the combined total for the two years was 376 incidents.
| Area | Recorded incidents |
|---|---|
| Helensburgh and Lomond | 99 |
| Bute and Cowal | 95 |
| Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands | 92 |
| Oban, Lorn and the Isles | 90 |
Within Helensburgh and Lomond, the largest number recorded at a single school during the period was 31, of which 18 incidents occurred in the 2025/26 academic year up to the date of the request. Three other schools in the area reported double‑figure counts.
Context and recent trends
The figures come amid heightened attention across Scotland to violence and assaults in schools. National reports in recent months have highlighted a rise in physical assaults on staff, with one study noting an increase of 55% over two years in the 2024/25 term.
Locally, the highest number recorded at any single school in the FOI return was in the Oban, Lorn and the Isles area, where one establishment accounted for 56 incidents in the period covered.
Council response
“We have around 10,000 learners across Argyll and Bute and dedicated staff in schools who work with them each day. Many of these incidents of dysregulation come from learners with a range of additional support needs.
The council added that safeguarding staff is a priority, and that it operates a range of procedures and policies supported by continued training. It said it collaborates with families, unions and multi‑agency partners to manage behaviour and support pupils.
- Total incidents recorded: 376 across Argyll and Bute (two years).
- Helensburgh and Lomond: 99 incidents — highest area total in the dataset.
- Single-school peak: 56 incidents at one Oban Lorn and the Isles school.
What this means locally
For parents and staff in Helensburgh and the surrounding area the figures underline continuing concerns about pupil behaviour and safety in some schools. The council’s reference to a strong link with additional support needs suggests many incidents stem from episodes of dysregulation rather than malicious intent, but that distinction does not lessen the practical impact on classroom safety and staff wellbeing.
Parents seeking further detail about incidents at particular schools can request information from the council under FOI arrangements, or raise concerns directly with headteachers and elected members. The council’s statement indicates measures are in place, but community scrutiny is likely to continue as parents and unions press for assurances about safety, staffing and support provision.
