Gold Coast, AUSTRALIA – A primary school teacher on the Gold Coast has spoken out about the traumatic experience she endured at the hands of her students.
Chelsea Rose shared a chilling account of the abuse she suffered, including sexual taunts and physical violence, in a video posted to social media.
Describing what she called the “most traumatising day” of her career, Ms. Rose detailed an incident where a student brought a metal drink bottle and a ruler into the classroom, using them to make a loud noise.
The student then proceeded to mimic a sexual act, spraying water everywhere and making a disturbing comment.
The same student later returned with a dead bird, which they and other students threw at Ms. Rose and some of her students.
Later that day, the student demanded Ms. Rose retrieve a toy, threatening to become angry if she refused.
After speaking with the student’s teacher, Ms. Rose claimed the student began punching her, eventually breaking one of her ribs.
The incident was so severe that the student was suspended for 20 days before returning to class for the remainder of the year.
Ms. Rose’s account comes as thousands of teachers across Queensland took part in a historic strike, demanding better pay and conditions, as well as a safer work environment.
According to Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek, teachers in the state reported approximately 119 violent incidents per day in the first term of 2025, a 21% increase from the same period the previous year.
While Ms. Rose’s experience was extreme, many viewers shared similar stories of abuse and violence in the classroom.
As part of the strike, more than 50,000 members of the Queensland Teacher’s Union walked off the job without pay, calling for improved working conditions and an end to staff shortages and excessive workloads.
The event marked the state’s first teachers strike since 2009.
If you or someone you know has been affected by violence in the classroom, please contact the Queensland Teacher’s Union or local authorities for support.