Watch as fights picked by bullies at Edinburgh school are filmed for Snapchat

Queensferry Community High vows to tackle the problem

SHOCKING video has emerged of schoolkids regularly fighting outside a Capital community centre in broad daylight.

Footage has been shared on social media platform Snapchat of Queensferry Community High students throwing punches as others watch on.

One worried parent blamed the violence on a gang of teen bullies squaring up to other kids at break time.

Footage has been shared on social media platform Snapchat of Queensferry Community High students throwing punches as others watch on.

“They’re picking on individuals who they think are weak-minded,” said the parent. “Some of the kids are scared to go to school.”

The Evening News has seen several videos of fights breaking out in front of the Queensferry Sports and Community Hub, next to the school, at lunchtime or after school.

The hub is a popular go-to for students to stock up on treats from its snack bar.

Lib Dem councillors Louise Young said: “Some parents have raised concerns with me, about their children being bullied at the school.

One worried parent blamed the violence on a gang of teen bullies squaring up to other kids at break time.

“As a parent myself I know how important it is to ensure our children are safe and supported at school.

“I’ve raised this at a senior level in the council who are working with the headteacher. It is essential that parents, the school and the council’s education management team work together to bring this to an end.”

'Massive bullying problem'

The latest video - believed to have been shot last Thursday - shows a teen throwing a punch at another before the pair grapple to the ground.

More punches are thrown before the pair stagger to the feet and aim kicks at each other in front of other students.

“The kid that starts that fight is actually one of the bullies but he gets his comeuppance,” said the parent.

Other videos handed to the Evening News include one boy fleeing into the hub for refuge after a fight.

Police are understood to have been called in to investigate at least one of the fights while teachers have vowed to patrol the area at breaktime.

“I went down there at lunchtime and didn’t see any teachers about,” said the parent. “They have an obligation to keep the kids safe so they can go to class but it’s not happening.

“There’s a massive bullying problem within the high school and the area of South Queensferry and Kirkliston - I’m worried some kids won’t be able to take it.”

The 760-student school in Ashburnham Road was opened in 1970 by Princess Margaret marking the 900th anniversary of the arrival of Queen Margaret in Queensferry.

Students enrol predominantly from Echline Primary, Queensferry Primary, Dalmeny Primary and Kirkliston Primary.

An Edinburgh City Council spokesman said: “Bullying is completely unacceptable and we are introducing new anti-bullying procedures in our schools.

"Pupils in each school are working with staff to shape their own anti-bullying policies as it is a major issue being raised by young people. All the staff at the school work proactively to promote positive behaviour.

“Any incidents are treated seriously and promptly dealt with. We are working with pupils, families and the community over these recent incidents and staff have had a visible presence in the local area at breaks and lunchtimes in order to support pupils.

“The school continues to work with Police Scotland and other agencies to offer further support to young people and their families.”

The schools anti-bullying policy can be viewed HERE.