Despite an encouraging fall in total exclusions and suspensions in 2024/25, new data reveals growing issues for children with education, health and care plans (EHCPs).
- Overall fall in permanent exclusions of 9 per cent between 2023/24 and 2024/25, with suspensions down 4 per cent.
- Permanent exclusions of pupils on EHCPs rose from 347 in 2014/15 to 1,198 in 2024/25, with suspensions also at a record for those pupils.
Daniel Lilley, Head of Youth at the Centre for Social Justice, said:
“Despite an encouraging overall decline in exclusions and suspensions, the record number of children with ECHPs being kicked out of school is extremely concerning.
“The broken SEND system is undermining the progress being made. We need better support for vulnerable children to unlock their potential and end disruption in the classroom.
“Children with the most severe needs should be put back at the heart of the system with support focused, benefits for complex and lifelong conditions uprated, and early intervention prioritised.
