More than one in five teachers would like to see the cane reintroduced in UK schools, a TES survey has found. And the majority of those who gave reasons cited the deterioration of pupil behaviour.

Of 6,162 teachers polled, 20.3 per cent support “the right to use corporal punishment in extreme cases”.

Judith Cookson, a supply teacher who “strongly” supported its return, said: “Children’s behaviour is now absolutely outrageous in the majority of schools. I am a supply teacher, so I see very many schools and there are no sanctions.

“There are too many anger management people and their ilk who give children the idea that it is their right to flounce out of lessons for time out because they have problems with their temper. They should be caned instead.”

Ravi Kasinathan, a primary teacher who also “strongly” supported the idea, said: “There is justification, or an argument, for bringing back corporal punishment, if only as a deterrent. I believe some children just don’t respond to the current sanctions.”

The survey suggests support for corporal punishment is strongest among secondary teachers: 22 per cent back the idea, compared with 16 per cent of primary teachers.

It also uncovers much lower support among heads, deputy and assistant heads: 12 per cent, compared with 22 per cent of teachers.

John Dunford, of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: “Thankfully, corporal punishment is no longer on the agenda, except in the most uncivilised countries. I am sure that this barbaric punishment has disappeared forever.”

A Department for Children, Schools and Families spokesperson said: “Violence against children is clearly unacceptable and illegal.”