Child-on-Child Sexual Abuse in Schools: Urgent Call for Action 2026

Child-on-child sexual abuse in schools has reached alarming levels, with a Guardian investigation revealing that police in England and Wales record nearly five sexual crimes against children aged 12 and younger every day. The findings have prompted a coalition of nearly 90 organisations to write to the prime minister, demanding decisive action to end this cycle of harm.

The Shocking Scale of School Sexual Violence

Analysis of police data from 2021 to 2025 shows that at least 8,500 sexual offences against under-13s occurred on school premises or nearby, equating to 4.7 reported offences daily. Among these, almost 2,000 rapes and attempted rapes were reported, meaning police receive an average of one rape allegation at a school every day. More than a third of the rape victims were children under 13.

While most reports did not specify the perpetrator's age, lawyers and experts suggest they are likely to be fellow pupils. The majority of victims were girls, highlighting a deeply troubling gender dimension to this violence.

Coalition Demands Decisive Government Action

The letter to the prime minister, signed by nearly 90 organisations, calls for Labour to redouble efforts to deliver on its manifesto promise to halve violence against women and girls (VAWG) and to “end this cycle of harm once and for all”. The groups emphasise that the data “shines a light on the harrowing reality of sexual violence in education”.

The coalition urges the government to take immediate steps to address the issue, including better training for teachers, mandatory reporting, and a whole-school approach to preventing sexual violence.

Key Takeaways

• Nearly five sexual crimes against under-13s are recorded daily in English and Welsh schools.
• Almost 2,000 rapes and attempted rapes were reported in schools over four years.
• Over a third of rape victims were children under 13.
• A coalition of 90 organisations demands government action to end the cycle of harm.
• Labour's manifesto pledge to halve VAWG is under scrutiny.

Comparing the Data: A Stark Reality

What Needs to Change?

Experts argue that schools must become safer spaces. This requires comprehensive sex education, clear reporting mechanisms, and a culture that believes and supports victims. The government must also ensure that police and schools work together to identify and address these crimes.

The coalition's letter stresses that without decisive action, the cycle of harm will continue, affecting thousands of children each year. The time for change is now.

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