STUDY: More than half of teachers say they have not received specific training on dealing with cases of racism
LESS THAN half of teachers know how to tackle racism in the classroom, according to the findings of a new study.
Just 39 per cent of teachers say they have received specific training in dealing with cases of racism at school.
The study, carried out by campaign group, Show Racism the Red Card, found that at least one in eight teachers witnessed racism amongst pupils.
Racist incidents included verbal abuse, as well as racial stereotyping displayed by students.
According to the survey of 148 teachers, it was revealed that many of those questioned would not step in if it an incident appeared "unintentional" or it was "the first time it had happened".
The study also concluded that a third of teachers believed their colleagues had racist attitudes.
Ged Grebby, chief executive of Show Racism the Red Card, said: "Teachers need to be empowered with skills and knowledge in order to be better equipped to deal with these issues in schools."
The Equality campaigners have made an appeal for spaces to be made available for students to openly discuss their views on race.