Schools urged to tackle causes of bad behaviour among unruly children

The charity said some pupils may be “acting out” rather than “acting up” in class, and that schools should not simply deal with the symptoms of bad behaviour.

Official figures published last week revealed that, in England, pupils with a statement of special educational needs (SEN) are around nine times more likely to be expelled from school.

In 2010/11, SEN children with a statement were permanently excluded on 430 occasions, and accounted for 8 per cent of all expulsions, the Department for Education statistics show.

Barnardo’s chief executive Anne Marie Carrie said: “A school teacher’s job is not an easy one, but they must look behind the behaviour to see the child. Unruly pupils may be acting out, not just acting up.

“The most ‘out of control’ children may be the most vulnerable children facing horrendous problems at home.

She added: “We believe that education and a stable home are vital if children are to have a chance at overcoming disadvantage.”

The charity argues some youngsters are dealing with issues such domestic violence or parents who are drug addicts.