News

The number of permanent exclusions from primary, secondary and special schools has increased by 11 per cent, according to the latest government statistics.

In 2000-1, there were 9,210 exclusions. The highest rise was in primary schools, where expulsions rose by 19 per cent on the previous year. Exclusions in secondary schools rose by 10 per cent in the same period.

However, the number of pupils who were excluded from special schools fell by 11 per cent, from 384 to 340 in 2000-1.

According to the figures, 61 per cent of permanent expulsions were for pupils aged between 13 and 15. The majority of children excluded are boys, who account for 83 per cent.

Education secretary Estelle Morris said: "Exclusion is a last resort and is only used with good reason. Our priority is to support head teachers who have to make difficult decisions but also make sure excluded pupils are given full-time education and do not roam the streets.

"That is why we have invested £600m since 1999. There are over 300 pupil referral units in England and from September every excluded pupil will have access to full-time study," she added.

- Permanent Exclusions from Schools and Exclusion Appeals, England 2000-1 from www.dfes.gov.uk/statistics/DB/SFR/index.html