Today’s Government data shows a concerning rise in the number of children and young people being permanently excluded from schools in Birmingham.
The number of children and young people who have been permanently excluded has risen 29% since 21/22.
The most common reason for 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.
In Birmingham those on free school meals are over twice as likely to be permanently excluded than those who aren’t.
Children with special educational needs (SEN) were also more at risk of being excluded. 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 a 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, with a centre in Walsall, 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 a 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. This is to help to keep them engaged with learning and support 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.