London schools see fewer exclusions after Inclusion Charter

The number of children absent from or suspended in London schools has decreased, with ministers urged to learn from the capital's Inclusion Charter. This strategy, launched in 2024 and supported by 30 London boroughs and numerous charities, has seen London's school suspension and permanent exclusion rates fall to half the national average. Recent data indicates a 14 per cent reduction in the exclusion rate for the last academic year, accompanied by a 7 per cent decrease in suspensions and a 2 per cent drop in absenteeism.

Boroughs report significant improvements

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Several boroughs have experienced noticeable changes. Sutton has seen a 63 per cent decline in permanent exclusions since 2023, while Wandsworth's exclusion levels have fallen by a third. More than 730 schools, representing approximately a quarter of London's institutions, have signed up to the Charter. The document outlines four guiding principles for fostering student inclusion: embedding diversity in the curriculum, empowering students to shape school policy, offering varied educational pathways, and prioritising exposure to new experiences and perspectives.

Research links charter to safety and belonging

New research commissioned by the Mayor's Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) and conducted by the University of Strathclyde suggests that pupils in 'rights-respecting schools' report a greater sense of belonging and safety. Sir Sadiq Khan stated that City Hall would share these findings with government ministers. He described the Inclusion Charter as an "incredibly successful" policy that has led to fewer exclusions and suspensions compared to the rest of the country, alongside progress in tackling persistent absenteeism. Khan believes this contributes to safer, more connected, and inclusive schools, potentially reducing the likelihood of young people becoming involved with criminal gangs.

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Lib Peck, VRU Director, highlighted that keeping young people in school and safe is central to the VRU's strategy for reducing violence. She acknowledged the reductions in exclusions, suspensions, and absenteeism achieved through the Inclusion Charter but stressed that further work is needed to ensure no child misses out on learning or becomes vulnerable to violence. Peck noted that the independent evaluation demonstrates the value of prioritising children's rights in fostering a sense of safety and connection to school. While momentum is building with nearly a quarter of London schools signed up, the VRU aims to increase this number to ensure young people are supported to thrive.

Broader impact on crime reduction

The VRU, established in 2019, has conducted over half a million targeted interventions and opportunities for young people. City Hall attributes the success of this preventative approach to ONS figures showing a 15 per cent drop in knife crime across London in the past 12 months. The Department for Education has not yet responded to a request for comment. In July, officials updated guidance on school exclusions, acknowledging their use as essential behaviour management tools for headteachers to maintain standards and safety. However, the guidance also encourages schools to create environments where exclusions are unnecessary due to improved pupil behaviour.