THERE have been 20 alleged sex attacks at Dorset schools in the last four years.

Dorset Police investigated six reports of sexual offences on school premises in 2011/12, two in 2012/13, six in 2013/14 and six in 2014/15.

Figures were disclosed following a Freedom of Information request of UK police forces with 34 of 45 responses across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Alleged offences ranged from harassment to serious sexual assaults and rapes. Less than one in ten suspected cases resulted in criminal charges or summons.

Nationally, reports of sexual offences in schools have more than doubled in four years to 1,955 in 2014/15.

Between 2012 and 2015 there were 4,711 reported sexual offences on school premises in the UK, 471 of which were alleged rapes and 2,975 other alleged sexual offences.

Data showed there were 2,751 recorded suspects, 357 of whom were teachers, 61 were school staff, 788 were pupils, 21 a parent, relative or carer and 880 recorded as ‘unknown’.

Global children’s charity Plan International UK is now calling for the government to commit to mandatory sex and relationships education which covers sexting, consent, healthy relationships and the law.

“This shows that we’re failing young people when it comes to learning about healthy relationships and consent,” said Kerry Smith, who is head of girls’ rights at the charity.

“Quality sex and relationships education helps young people to develop healthy attitudes towards sex and relationships while helping to tackle inappropriate and aggressive sexual behaviour.”

The figures also show that nearly two-thirds (66 per cent) of alleged victims were girls or women and 94 per cent of the alleged offences were committed by men or boys “Clearly girls and women are disproportionately affected by sexual violence in schools,” added Ms Smith.

“Young people need education about the realities of life and relationships, including consent.

“Given the nature, severity and school setting, it’s alarming that reporting on this data is inconsistent across police forces.

“This is a global problem. Girls and boys need clear messages that unwanted sexual contact in or around school is not acceptable.”

Detective Chief Inspector for public protection at Dorset Police, Gavin Dudfield, said: “We have multi-agency, dedicated teams dealing with child sexual abuse and child sexual exploitation. Regardless of the outcome of an investigation, we continue to support victims and help them minimise any risks they may be exposed to.

“Dorset Police works closely with our partner agencies to ensure children are safeguarded and protected from sexual abuse and exploitation.

“I would also encourage any victims of abuse or exploitation to come forward.”