The number of racist taunts and attacks reported in Medway schools has dramatically decreased.

Figures released under the Freedom of Information Act show reported incidents have fallen from 381 between 2003 and 2004 to 215 between 2007 and 2008.

It is a complete reversal of the situation in Kent schools where the number of cases has almost doubled in recent years.

The number of incidents have risen from 596 between 2003 and 2004 to 901 between 2006 and 2007.

The statistics also show that verbal and physical abuse were the most common type of incident.

Others ranged from threatened assaults and graffiti to attacks.

Medway Council is pleased with their figures. A spokesman said: “We work closely with schools to promote equality and to tackle bullying and are pleased to see these efforts have resulted in a decrease in racist bullying incidents. We will continue to focus on this issue.”

But despite the decrease of reported incidents Carol Stewart, chairman of the Medway African Caribbean Association, said the figures could be deceptive.

She said: “There may be some incidents that have not been reported, particularly in primary schools where children may not realise incidents are racist. The figures also do not show what is being done about the incidents. I would like to know what the schools are doing about it.”

Mark Ogle, a spokesman from the Equality and Human Rights Commission said: “All children and teachers have the right to learn and work in an environment free from discrimination.

“Good race equality policies help to ensure this is the case so that if a child is subjected to racist, or other bullying, teachers have a coherent framework of procedures to follow.

“It also gives parents and children confidence to report such incidents, knowing there are specific measures for the school to take.”