“You have to go to Class; You are their Teacher”: Teacher Fears of Classrooms in South Africa

Recent research reveals that schools across the world are plagued by learner violence against teachers. Educators are subjected to physical and psychological abuse by disruptive learners who hinder the teaching and learning process. Studies show that fear among teachers is a major contributor to teacher burnout and despondency. Education stakeholders—including school governors and communities—are often overwhelmed by schools where learner violence and unruly behaviour undermine the culture of teaching and learning. This case study explores the experiences of 12 teachers from three historically Black (township) schools in South Africa. It examines how learner violence and bullying have impacted their morale and professionalism. Data was collected through observations, and individual and focus group interviews. The findings demonstrate that, in addition to fostering toxic school climates and cultures, hostile learners contribute to teacher fear and professional decline. A meticulous, deliberate response to learner aggression is a missing link in fostering effective classrooms and confident teachers, especially in underperforming schools. The study concludes that the abuse of teachers is a critical challenge that must be addressed by community structures, government institutions, and broader society. Schools are meant to be spaces of justice, thinking, and freedom—yet teaching and learning cannot occur where fear dominates.