Last school year, the confidential inspectors of the Education Inspectorate received 212 reports from secondary schools and 22 from vocational education institutions. These numbers have been rising for years. According to Hagoort, this could mean that schools have become more open about the subject, but it could also point to an increase in incidents.
Following a call via social media, NOS Stories received more than 2,000 accounts from students. They reported various forms of sexually transgressive behavior, ranging from sexually suggestive remarks and online abuse to sexual assault and rape. In most cases, a fellow student was the perpetrator, but teachers and other school staff were also mentioned.
A survey of nearly 60 confidential advisers shows that more than half receive between one and ten reports each year, usually concerning sexual harassment. Nearly half received no reports, but that does not mean that nothing is happening. Approximately twenty confidential advisers received at least one report about a teacher or another staff member.
Many young people do not report incidents, out of shame or because they think their experience is not serious enough. Those who do raise the alarm are often dissatisfied with the school's approach.
Efforts are underway to improve safety through the Free and Safe Education Act. This law would require schools to appoint a confidential adviser and report all incidents. According to State Secretary Koen Becking, this will help schools take greater responsibility.
Source: NOS.