Len Smith - Gypsy activist
In my culture we suffer a disproportionately high amount of exclusion and, unfortunately, truancy. Therefore I welcome any constructive action to reduce these, as education is vital. There is evidence that money spent on voluntary sector initiatives in an effort to cut truancy is at last starting to have an impact.
Kerry Evans - Parent of two severely autistic sons
Autistic children can have challenging behaviour and exclusions among this group are largely as result of mainstreaming policy. Exclusion rates will only fall if children with complex needs receive co-ordinated education, health and care packages and education authorities look toward more long-term provision.
Kierra Box - Young people's activist
While initiatives aim to curb "bad" behaviour and reintegrate those who don't "fit in" to the school system, the fundamental problem is that a significant number of young people cannot see how the education system is relevant to their lives. Possibly it is the education system that does not fit truants, rather than they who do not fit it.
Angie Lawrence - Single mother
The management of school truancy and pupil exclusion has serious consequences for youngsters. I am aware that to exclude a pupil is to basically write them off. Communication channels between social services, schools, parents and pupils need to be well established so that all concerned are working to achieve the same aim.
