Concern violence is becoming widespread in our school communities..

A teenage boy's appeared before Porirua Youth Court, charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, after an incident at Tawa College.

Post Primary Teachers' Association Melanie Webber president says violence is escalating in schools - and having a huge impact on both students and staff.

She says they want students to feel as if school is a safe space where they're able to learn - and part of that includes learning how to manage difficult feelings.

The union is calling for more experienced and skilled school counsellors, to help students and their families.