School Exclusions Rise by a Fifth in England, Study Finds
A new report has revealed that suspensions and exclusions from schools in England have risen by more than 20% over the past year. The study, conducted by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) and co-produced with The Difference, highlights concerns about the increasing number of children being shifted from mainstream education into alternative provision, where quality and safety are less certain.
The report warns of a 56% increase in children moving from state-funded placements to privately run alternatives between 2018-19 and 2023-24, with some places costing up to £111,000 per child annually. Government data showed a record 787,000 suspensions and 9,400 exclusions in 2022-23, marking a 44% rise compared to the previous year.
Children from low-income families, those with special educational needs, and mental health challenges are most affected by exclusions. The report also highlights that pupils from certain ethnic backgrounds, such as Black Caribbean and Gypsy, Roma, and Irish Traveller heritages, are disproportionately placed in alternative provision.
Despite these challenges, schools emphasize that suspensions and exclusions are used as a last resort for the safety and wellbeing of all students. The Department for Education has acknowledged the rise and is introducing measures such as mental health support, free breakfast clubs, and earlier interventions to address poor behaviour.