‘This has been my first training on suspensions and exclusions, I have learnt so much and it has really informed my practise moving forward. I think all senior leaders and governors would benefit from this course’
C Whitehead – SENDco and DSL – St Georges C of E Academy
Suspension and exclusions from school are a significant issue that affects many pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Students with Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans are still five times more likely to be excluded from school than students without an EHC plan and figures for those with undiagnosed SEND are likely to be much higher but are not currently recorded.
Autistic students are the largest SEND group to be excluded.
The Timpson review of school exclusion, published in 2018, stated very clearly that the way some schools apply sanctions and exclusions has a disproportionate impact on children and young people with SEND.
As educators, it is crucial to adopt a child-centred approach when dealing with challenging behaviours and exploring alternative strategies to exclusion. This course aims to provide educators with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage exclusions for pupils with SEND while promoting inclusivity and positive behaviour.
Managing SEND Exclusions INSET Outline:
An Inclusive approach
- Understanding the importance of inclusive education for pupils with SEND.
- Exploring strategies to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
- Promoting collaboration between educators, parents, and support staff to enhance inclusion.
Suspensions and Exclusions Overview
- Examining the current trends and statistics related to suspensions and exclusion of pupils with SEND.
- Understanding the impact of exclusions on the academic and social development of these pupils.
- Exploring the legal framework and guidelines governing exclusions for pupils with SEND.
Role of the Adult in Behaviour Management
- Recognising the key role of adults in supporting pupils with SEND in managing their behaviour.
- Developing positive behaviour management strategies tailored to the individual needs of each pupil.
- Building positive relationships with pupils to prevent challenging behaviours and promote a conducive learning environment.
Implementing a Child-Centred Approach to Managing Exclusions
- Understanding the principles of a child-centred approach in managing exclusions for pupils with SEND.
- Developing personalised support plans for pupils at risk of exclusion, focusing on their strengths and needs.
- Utilising restorative practices and conflict resolution techniques to address challenging behaviours and prevent future exclusions.
Collaboration and Support
- Establishing effective collaboration between educators, support staff, parents, and external agencies in managing exclusions.
- Providing ongoing support and training for school staff to enhance their skills in supporting pupils with SEND effectively.
- Creating a supportive network within the school community to address challenging behaviours and promote a culture of inclusivity and understanding.
This course aims to equip educators with the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to adopt a child-centred approach in managing exclusions for pupils with SEND. By promoting inclusivity, understanding the impact of suspensions and exclusions, emphasising the role of adults in behaviour management, and fostering collaboration and support, educators can create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every pupil can thrive.