A form one student at the Erin Serracino Inglott School in Cospicua was suspended yesterday after she attacked a male teacher as he finished a lesson with a form four class.

The case of physical abuse, said to be on the increase in Malta’s schools, prompted a strong condemnation from the Malta Union of Teachers.

Sources said the incident took place yesterday morning when a male teacher had just finished a lesson with a form four class. As he was packing his belongings to leave the classroom, a form one student – around 12 years old – walked in and attacked the teacher, kicking him repeatedly.

Sources said the school heads immediately suspended the girl for three days and are looking into the matter. The student’s parents were called to the school to discuss the situation.

It is not known whether the teacher or the school authorities have informed the police about the case or whether criminal action will be taken against the student.