SCHOOL support staff are being subjected to verbal abuse and violence daily, new research found today.

In a survey conducted by Unison involving 8,000 workers, 34 per cent reported seeing pushing every day while 26 per cent reported kicking and the throwing of objects.

Some 35 per cent witnessed verbal abuse daily.

More than 70 per cent of the workers — who include teaching assistants, caterers and cleaners — were worried they won’t have enough money to pay their energy bills.

Two-thirds said they put in extra unpaid hours every week, but almost three in five said they don’t feel their school leaders value them.

Some 46 per cent said they are looking for another job.

Unison head of education Mike Short said: “Tackling bad behaviour in school requires funding and extra staff, but this survey shows the opposite has happened in recent years.

“The generosity and dedication of school support staff are to be applauded.

“But it is truly shocking that many are putting in extra unpaid hours and struggling to make ends meet. 

“Their pay and working environment should better reflect the invaluable help they provide.”