Increase in number of school exclusions

COUNCILLORS have been told school exclusions are on the rise in Angus.

The figures were contained in a report which was brought before Angus Council’s children and learning committee.

The committee approved a policy for head teachers on preventing and managing school exclusions in Angus which has been revised following a refresh of national guidance.

Pauline Stephen, head of schools and learning, said: “Following the introduction of the previous guidance for managing exclusions in Angus, there was a decrease.

“Exclusions are carefully monitored and over the last two school sessions there has been an increase in the number of exclusions in our secondary schools – the highest rate being 45 exclusions per 1,000 young people in 2017-18.

“Exclusions in the primary sector are less common and last year the number dropped to six per 1,000 children from a high of nine per 1,000 in 2015-16.

“The preventing and managing school exclusions in Angus policy is designed to ensure a consistent approach across the area in line with the Scottish Government’s guidance and relevant legislation.”

Arbroath East and Lunan Independent councillor Lois Speed said: “The focus really should be on inclusion, and ensuring that we have the right environments and that staff are equipped with the right skill set and values to ensure that we do encourage and keep as many young people within our settings as possible and not have to refer to the policy.”

Lois Speed