Surge in School Suspensions and Exclusions Raises Concerns in England
In This Article
HIGHLIGHTS
- School suspensions in England reached nearly one million in 2023/24, marking a 21% increase from the previous year.
- Permanent exclusions rose by 16%, with over 10,000 children removed from schools, including 471 aged six or younger.
- Pupils with special educational needs and those on free school meals were disproportionately affected by suspensions.
- Racism-related suspensions in Kent increased, prompting calls for mandatory anti-racism training for teachers.
- Experts emphasize the need for early intervention and additional support services to address the root causes of poor behaviour.
The number of school suspensions and exclusions in England has surged to its highest level since 2006, according to recent figures from the Department for Education. In the 2023/24 academic year, state schools recorded 954,952 suspensions, a 21% increase from the previous year, alongside a 16% rise in permanent exclusions, totaling 10,885 cases.
Rising Numbers and Disproportionate Impact
Secondary school students accounted for the majority of suspensions, yet over 100,000 primary-age pupils were also affected, marking a significant increase. Notably, children with special educational needs were three times more likely to face suspension compared to their peers. Additionally, students on free school meals, who represent a quarter of the school population, comprised 60% of suspensions.
Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, highlighted that schools alone cannot tackle the root causes of poor behaviour. "The reasons for disruptive behaviour often lie beyond the school gates," he stated, pointing to issues such as poverty and inadequate support for special educational needs.
Addressing Racism in Schools
In Kent, suspensions for racist abuse rose from 146 to 223 during the spring term of 2023/24. Aaliyah Likuluta, a former student, shared her experiences of racism, emphasizing the need for change. Dr. Shabna Begum of the Runnymede Trust advocated for mandatory anti-racism training for teachers, stating that many educators feel ill-equipped to address race-related issues in the classroom.
The Call for Early Intervention
Experts stress the importance of early intervention to prevent exclusions. Sophie Schmal, director of Chance UK, warned that excluding young children could have long-term educational consequences. "Early intervention has to mean early," she said, urging the government to prioritize support for vulnerable children.
The Covid-19 pandemic's impact on early education has also been noted, with children facing socialization challenges due to prolonged school closures. Lorraine Anderson from Chance UK highlighted the need for comprehensive support services, including mental health and behaviour support teams, to address these challenges effectively.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The rising trend in school suspensions and exclusions in England poses significant challenges for educators and policymakers. If these issues are not addressed, there could be long-term educational and social consequences for affected students. The government may need to increase funding for support services and implement comprehensive training programs for teachers to tackle both behavioural and racial issues in schools.
The emphasis on early intervention and support for special educational needs could lead to policy changes aimed at reducing exclusions and improving educational outcomes. As schools continue to navigate the post-Covid landscape, the focus on creating inclusive and supportive environments will be crucial in ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed.
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Surge in School Suspensions and Exclusions Raises Concerns in England
In This Article
Aya Nakamura| Published HIGHLIGHTS
- School suspensions in England reached nearly one million in 2023/24, marking a 21% increase from the previous year.
- Permanent exclusions rose by 16%, with over 10,000 children removed from schools, including 471 aged six or younger.
- Pupils with special educational needs and those on free school meals were disproportionately affected by suspensions.
- Racism-related suspensions in Kent increased, prompting calls for mandatory anti-racism training for teachers.
- Experts emphasize the need for early intervention and additional support services to address the root causes of poor behaviour.
The number of school suspensions and exclusions in England has surged to its highest level since 2006, according to recent figures from the Department for Education. In the 2023/24 academic year, state schools recorded 954,952 suspensions, a 21% increase from the previous year, alongside a 16% rise in permanent exclusions, totaling 10,885 cases.
Rising Numbers and Disproportionate Impact
Secondary school students accounted for the majority of suspensions, yet over 100,000 primary-age pupils were also affected, marking a significant increase. Notably, children with special educational needs were three times more likely to face suspension compared to their peers. Additionally, students on free school meals, who represent a quarter of the school population, comprised 60% of suspensions.
Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, highlighted that schools alone cannot tackle the root causes of poor behaviour. "The reasons for disruptive behaviour often lie beyond the school gates," he stated, pointing to issues such as poverty and inadequate support for special educational needs.
Addressing Racism in Schools
In Kent, suspensions for racist abuse rose from 146 to 223 during the spring term of 2023/24. Aaliyah Likuluta, a former student, shared her experiences of racism, emphasizing the need for change. Dr. Shabna Begum of the Runnymede Trust advocated for mandatory anti-racism training for teachers, stating that many educators feel ill-equipped to address race-related issues in the classroom.
The Call for Early Intervention
Experts stress the importance of early intervention to prevent exclusions. Sophie Schmal, director of Chance UK, warned that excluding young children could have long-term educational consequences. "Early intervention has to mean early," she said, urging the government to prioritize support for vulnerable children.
The Covid-19 pandemic's impact on early education has also been noted, with children facing socialization challenges due to prolonged school closures. Lorraine Anderson from Chance UK highlighted the need for comprehensive support services, including mental health and behaviour support teams, to address these challenges effectively.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The rising trend in school suspensions and exclusions in England poses significant challenges for educators and policymakers. If these issues are not addressed, there could be long-term educational and social consequences for affected students. The government may need to increase funding for support services and implement comprehensive training programs for teachers to tackle both behavioural and racial issues in schools.
The emphasis on early intervention and support for special educational needs could lead to policy changes aimed at reducing exclusions and improving educational outcomes. As schools continue to navigate the post-Covid landscape, the focus on creating inclusive and supportive environments will be crucial in ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed.
Related Articles
UK Government's SEND Reforms Spark Debate Over Funding and Accessibility
UK SEND Education Reforms: New Funding, Infrastructure Proposals, and Potential Backlash
Government Unveils Ambitious Plan to Halve Attainment Gap in England's Schools
UK Government's SEND Reforms: A Critical Turning Point for Special Education
Crackdown on Waste Crime: £1.2 Million Fine and New Drone Unit to Combat Illegal Dumping
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