Upward Trend in Verbal and Physical Abuse against Teachers in Singapore Following OECD Teaching and Learning International Survey 2024 Findings

24 Mr Patrick Tay Teck Guan asked the Minister for Education whether there is an upward trend in verbal abuse or physical assault of teachers or educators from students or parents, following findings from the OECD Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) 2024 that Singapore participated in, which found that verbal abuse or intimidation directed at teachers or staff concerns about 5% of teachers on average.

Mr Desmond Lee: A similar question was answered in this House in October 2025 relating to cases where students abused or assaulted teachers or school staff. The member may wish to refer to the Ministry of Education's (MOE's) reply to Question No 30 for Oral Answer on the Order Paper for 14 October 2025. [Please refer to ​"Cases where Students Physically Assaulted Teachers or School Staff", Official Report, 14 October 2025, Vol 96, Issue 7, Written Answers to Questions for Oral Answer not Answered by End of Question Time section.]

The number of cases of teachers being abused by parents remains low. Nonetheless, as part of our efforts to further support our teachers in schools, we have refreshed the Guidelines for School-Home Partnership in 2024. These guidelines include respectful communication between parents and teachers and positive role-modelling. MOE's Engagement Charter also makes clear that firm action will be taken against parents who engage in such behaviour, including warnings and Police assistance where necessary. For egregious cases, criminal and legal action will be taken, including action under the Protection from Harassment Act.