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School Exclusions in England

Recent years have seen a significant rise in the number of school exclusions in England, although in the latest year for which there is data, both the suspension and exclusion rate has fallen slightly.

Research has found that exclusion numbers are highest among vulnerable children, those from less affluent backgrounds, and children with special educational needs.  

There has also been a rise in concerns about pupil behaviour since the covid pandemic. Research has found the pupils who are excluded from school can have worse future prospects, in physical and mental health as well as employment.

The government announced new RISE Attendance and Behaviour Hubs in May 2025 to address related issues. The February 2026 schools white paper included plans to tackle poor behaviour and exclusions.

This short briefing sets out some key statistics on the rise in exclusions in recent years, as well as some recent related research and government policy. It does not aim to be exhaustive but instead to outline the extent of recent increase and its potential causes.

Education policy is a devolved matter and this briefing relates to developments in England.