Data reveals rises in exclusions and suspensions in schools
Today’s Government data shows a concerning rise in the number of children and young people being permanently excluded and suspended from school.
- The number of children and young people who have been permanently excluded has risen 39% since 21/22.
- The number of children and young people who have been suspended has risen 31% since 21/22 the highest recorded number of suspensions at this time of year.
The most common reason for suspensions and permanent exclusions was persistent disruptive behaviour. Worryingly, its young people who are the most disadvantaged already that are most likely to be removed from school.
Those on free school meals are four and a half times more likely to be permanently excluded and four times more likely to be suspended than those who aren’t.
Children with special educational needs (SEN) also were more at risk of being excluded and suspended. With the most likely children to be permanently excluded those with SEN but without an education, health and care plan (EHC plan). This suggests that with the interventions and support outlined in an EHC plan, more young people with SEN could be supported to remain in school.
Last month a freedom of information request found a backlog of children and young people waiting to be issued with an EHC plan. It found more than 20,000 cases were waiting more than the 20-week limit and 3,000 were waiting more than a year.
Nacro is an independent education provider, its smaller class sizes and one-to-one tailored support works well for those who have struggled in school. Nearly half of its students have an identified learning disability and 70% are eligible for free school meals or bursary.
Elise Temple, Director of Education at Nacro said: “The impact for already vulnerable children of a disrupted education can be devastating, and the knock-on effect into adult life has wide-ranging and long-lasting consequences. A number of our students were these young people, yet we see every day the potential and ability they show when they are offered a different kind of learning. It is vital we help these young people back into education or training as much as possible, so they can have the future they deserve.”
Nacro is calling for more Ofsted-registered alternative provision to be available for children and young people to help provide the support to keep them engaged with learning and help them back into mainstream provision when appropriate.
The charity also wants to see a focus on ensuring all young people who need an education health care plan are issued with one, within the timescale. This is alongside more funding and investment so schools can offer children and young people the help they need.