The Post Primary Teachers Association says teachers are struggling with an increase in bad behaviour

Ministry of Education data shows high school expulsions are up 67 percent in five years -- with nearly 200 over-16 year olds expelled last year.

President Chris Abercrombie says it's hard on schools that do all they can to prevent a young person from being expelled.

He says teaching is a fantastic profession but it's increasingly hard - and we need to make sure we are getting support for young people earlier on.