DOZENS of serious sexual offences in Cumbria's schools were reported to police in 2014/2015 - a rise of more than 50 alleged incidents from the previous year.

Figures disclosed in a Freedom of Information request found 65 offences were reported. That number is up from ten the year before, 12 in 2012/2013 and 13 in 2011/2012.

Reported incidents included sexual assault, abuse of a position of trust of a sexual nature, sexual grooming, rape and sexual activity with a child.

Global children's charity Plan International UK, which submitted the request, is 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 Plan International UK Head of Girls’ Rights Kerry Smith.

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

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

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

Less than one in ten suspected cases resulted in criminal charges or summons, said the charity.

“Clearly girls and women are disproportionately affected by sexual violence in schools,” said Ms Smith. “Young people need education about the realities of life and relationships, including consent.”