CYP Now - ‘Disruptive behaviour’ most common reason for exclusions, DfE figures show

"Disruptive behaviour” has been cited as the most common reason for school exclusions, according to the Department for Education, prompting calls from communication experts for greater support for children with speech and language problems.

Children with EHCP plans are more likely to be excluded than their peers, figures show. Picture: Adobe Stock

Latest DfE figures show that in 2020/21 “persistent disruptive behaviour” was recorded as the reason behind 1,526 of 5,146 permanent exclusions.

Children’s communication charity I CAN has urged teachers to assess children for communication problems before excluding them over disruptive behaviour.

A spokesman for the charity said: “All too often children who have speech and language challenges are noted as having behaviour problems.

“Children may seem to misbehave when actually they are confused by instructions by teachers or unable to explain what they need.

“We urge schools and policy-makers to recognise that more children are struggling with speech and language post-pandemic and to put in the identification tools and training needed to avoid exclusions.”

Register Now to Continue Reading

Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's Included