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Newly released government statistics reveal a noteworthy decline in school suspensions and exclusions across England, marking the first decrease since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. In the 2024/25 academic year, state schools recorded approximately 913,000 suspensions, reflecting a 4% reduction from the previous year. Additionally, permanent exclusions decreased by 9%, totalling 9,900. Although secondary and special schools saw improvements, primary schools experienced an uptick in suspension rates.
A Mixed Picture for School Discipline
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson acknowledged the adverse effects of the pandemic on student behaviour, describing it as a “pernicious legacy.” However, she expressed optimism about the collaborative efforts of teachers, parents, and government initiatives, stating, “After years of spiralling suspensions and permanent exclusions, there are clear signs that our combined efforts are working. We are determined to continue this progress to address the behaviour crisis we inherited.”
Historically, suspension rates had been on the rise, with figures reaching their peak in nearly two decades prior to this decline. Despite the recent drop, the current suspension rates still exceed those recorded in the 2018/19 academic year.
Suspension Trends and Key Statistics
Suspensions in schools require students to stay out for a set period, with a maximum of 45 days allowed in a single academic year. Interestingly, nearly half of all suspensions—46%—lasted one day or less, yet a significant 94,400 pupils missed over a week of schooling due to suspensions.
Schools can cite multiple reasons for each suspension or exclusion, with persistent disruptive behaviour cited as the primary cause, accounting for over half (52%) of all suspension reasons and 40% of exclusions for the 2024/25 period. Other frequent reasons included verbal abuse or threats towards adults and physical assaults among students. Notably, secondary school pupils represented 85% of all suspensions, while primary schools reported a concerning rise in their suspension rates, with 112,545 instances recorded—an increase of 7,742 from the previous year.
Disparities in Suspension Rates
Students with special educational needs (SEND) continue to face the highest rates of both suspensions and permanent exclusions. Alarmingly, nearly 90% of permanent exclusions in primary schools involved children with SEND. Furthermore, pupils eligible for free school meals are four times more likely to be suspended compared to their peers who do not qualify. Gender disparities are also evident, with male pupils being suspended at a rate 1.5 times higher than females.
Research by Impetus has highlighted the long-term consequences of suspension, revealing that students suspended during secondary education are twice as likely to be not in education, employment, or training (NEET) by the age of 24 compared to their counterparts.
Calls for Systemic Change
Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT), welcomed the overall decrease in suspensions but stressed that schools cannot tackle this issue alone. Whiteman stated, “A sustained effort is needed to tackle the root causes of poor behaviour, which often originate from challenges in children’s lives outside the classroom, from poverty to mental health issues.” He advocated for increased funding for social care and mental health services to better support students.
Cara Cinnamon, chief impact officer at Mission 44—a charity founded by racing driver Lewis Hamilton—echoed these sentiments, asserting that permanent exclusion should be a last resort. She argued that many exclusions could be prevented with early intervention and support tailored to students’ needs. Cinnamon pointed out “worrying patterns” regarding the demographics affected by exclusions and urged the government to introduce new guidelines for keeping students engaged while preventing unnecessary suspensions.
The government has indicated plans to reform school suspension policies, aiming to allow students to remain on-site rather than being sent home immediately.
Why it Matters
The recent decline in school suspensions and exclusions in England is a positive development, suggesting that collaborative efforts among educators, parents, and policymakers are beginning to bear fruit. However, the persistent disparities and rising rates in certain demographics highlight the need for systemic reforms. Addressing these issues not only supports the academic and social development of young people but also contributes to a more inclusive educational environment. As the government considers changes to suspension policies, it is imperative that these reforms are implemented effectively to ensure that every child receives the support they need to thrive in school and beyond.
