Review 'success' as school exclusions cut

EDUCATION chiefs in North Yorkshire have claimed a major review of services for children with behavioural problems has helped to cut the number of exclusions by almost half in the space of a year.
By The Newsroom
Published 19th Oct 2010, 23:22 BST
Updated 19th Oct 2010, 23:22 BST

Latest figures show 43 pupils were permanently excluded across the county last year compared with 76 in the previous 12 months.

North Yorkshire secondary schools are being urged to work together through seven separate behaviour and attendance partnerships with support from the county's pupil referral units.

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The council has also opened new pupil referral services in Northallerton and Skipton to complement those already operating in Harrogate and Scarborough – which have both being given the highest ratings in Ofsted inspections.

North Yorkshire County Council's executive member for schools, John Watson, said: "If vulnerable and disaffected young people are supported in a way that enables them to enjoy the widest learning opportunities to the highest standards, then everybody benefits.

"Our innovative network of support for those with behaviour, emotional and social difficulties is already leading to improvements in engagement in learning and attendance."

The pupil referral services have also widened their remit.

As well as continuing to provide for students who have been excluded or who are at risk of exclusion, they are now used to provide outreach teaching and support for students with a "wider range of needs".

This includes those unable to access mainstream education because of illness or pupils who are waiting for a school place.

Related topics:North YorkshireNorth Yorkshire County CouncilNorthallertonOfstedHarrogateScarborough