LONDON, March 17 (UPI) -- Almost one-third of all British teachers have been physically assaulted by children, a survey published by the Association of Teachers and Lecturers reveals.

The survey found almost 33 percent of teachers admitted to having been kicked, punched, pinched or bitten by youths, or assaulted with missiles or arms, The Times of London reported.

More than 50 percent of teachers said punishments for students at their schools were not strong enough, and about 66 percent said they have thought about quitting teaching due to verbal and physical abuse from students, The Times reported.

"Not only is poor behavior driving teaching staff away at an alarming rate, it is also damaging the chances of other pupils during lessons by causing major disruptions," said Mary Bousted, general secretary of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers.

Publication of the survey reportedly comes as the majority of teachers agree that overall student behavior has worsened since 2006.