A recent report has raised concerns about the treatment of children with special educational needs in schools, highlighting a trend of these students being suspended and excluded without receiving the necessary support. The Runnymede Trust, a racial justice charity, identified a concerning pattern of under-diagnosis of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) among pupils from minority ethnic backgrounds, particularly Black boys.
The report revealed that Black children, those with SEND, and students on free school meals are disproportionately represented in school suspensions and exclusions. Researchers noted that vulnerable students are often excluded from school in an effort to safeguard exam results, rather than addressing the root causes such as unmet SEND needs, racial bias, or safeguarding issues.
During the academic year 2023/24, there were approximately 955,000 suspensions, marking a 21% increase from the previous year and reaching the highest level since 20026, with nearly 11,000 being permanent exclusions. Official data indicated that students with identified needs were over three times more likely to be suspended, while those eligible for free school meals were over four times as likely compared to their peers.
The report highlighted disparities in suspension rates among different ethnic groups, with White British pupils having an average suspension rate of 13.69 per 100 pupils, compared to rates of 15.63 for Black Caribbean pupils and 20.63 for Mixed White and Black Caribbean pupils. The study also pointed out the influence of racial bias and stereotypes in the disproportionate exclusion of Black boys from schools.
One parent, Kiyana, shared the experience of her son, Andre, being suspended for bringing a water gun to school, with the school claiming it resembled a firearm, causing distress to the family. Another mother, Sophia, described how her son, Ethan, who has ADHD, was repeatedly removed from class and isolated, despite her efforts to collaborate with the school for support.
The report emphasized the detrimental impact of school exclusions on children, warning that such actions can criminalize and traumatize them, leaving lasting scars on both the children and their families. Dr. Shabna Begum, the chief executive of the Runnymede Trust, stressed the need to shift away from an exclusionary culture in schools and towards a more nurturing and supportive environment for all students.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson is working on plans to reform the SEND system in an upcoming white paper, following calls from MPs to enhance teacher training in special educational needs and implement national standards to address the system’s current challenges.