Study Shows Pupils in East Sussex Second Worst Behaved in the South East
New education statistics show East Sussex is one of the worst areas in the South East for suspensions and exclusions within England schools, meanwhile Kent is ranked seventh.
In light of Children’s Mental Health Week (5-11 February), Education Solicitors, IBB Law, explored government data to obtain a clearer picture of the state of child behaviour, and the top reasons for expulsions and suspensions in schools throughout England.
The relation between children’s mental health and their behaviour is known to be closely linked. It is common for stress and worry within children to manifest into behavioural issues which could affect their school performance, or worse, see them reprimanded with a suspension or exclusion.
The latest data from the Department of Education surrounding school disciplinary actions was analysed by comparing the number of pupils excluded or suspended once or more to the headcount of pupils over the last five years.
From this, a top 10 ranking of areas within the South East was found. The results, and the percentage of students excluded/suspended, are as follows:
- Isle of Wight 2.90%
- East Sussex 2.73%
- Portsmouth 2.68%
- Medway 2.61%
- Milton Keynes 2.45%
- Oxfordshire 2.31%
- Kent 2.30%
- Southampton 2.26%
- Reading 2.23%
- Brighton and Hove 2.20%
The data considers state funded primary and secondary schools, as well as special schools. In East Sussex, there were a total of 331 occasions of exclusions and 10,680 suspensions.
These figures make East Sussex one of the top areas in the South East for pupil disciplinary actions taken. Wokingham sits at the bottom with only 1% of pupils experiencing an expulsion or suspension.
The most common reason for expulsion in East Sussex was physical abuse of pupils, and persistent disruption caused the most suspensions. This mimics the rest of the South East region where the most common reasons for expulsion were persistent disruption (29%), physical abuse of pupils (19%), and physical abuse of adults (12%).
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The top reasons for suspensions were similar across the region too, although verbal abuse to adults was an addition. Concerningly, drug and alcohol related issues sit 7th out of 17 reasons listed, with 460 occasions relating to suspensions.
When compared to other regions, there was a clear difference between Northern and Southern regions in terms of the percentage of disciplinary actions taken overall. In fact, the South fared better, with a lower percentage of disciplinary action taken across the board.
The top reasons for suspensions/exclusions in the South East are mirrored across the board, apart from the London regions. Worryingly, the Inner London and Outer London Regions involve possession of an offensive weapon as a top reason for expulsion.
When comparing the statistics over the past five years, all regions (excluding Outer London) have seen an increase in the number of disciplinaries given out in the academic year 2021/22, potentially highlighting issues with behaviour within schools since the pandemic.
Celia Whittuck, Senior Associate at IBB (pictured), says: “The data revealing the causes behind suspensions and expulsions in UK schools underscores the critical need for a balanced and fair approach in addressing disciplinary issues. It is imperative to recognise that behind every statistic is a student's future at stake.
“Beyond disciplinary measures, we need a holistic understanding that considers the socio-economic, cultural, and mental health aspects influencing behaviour, especially following the pandemic.
“The disruptions to normalcy, isolation, and the shift to virtual learning have created unprecedented challenges. Many children have experienced heightened stress, anxiety, and a sense of disconnection, leading to observable changes in behaviour.
"The relationship between suspensions, exclusions and special educational needs (SEN) should also not be overlooked. SEN is a factor in some suspensions and exclusions.
“To address the state of children's behaviour, it is crucial for educators, parents, and policymakers to collaborate, emphasising the importance of holistic education that goes beyond academics."
• If you’re a concerned parent of a pupil you feel has been wrongfully dismissed from school, then speak to a member of the team of experts on 01895 207230 or email educationteam@ibblaw.co.uk
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