Crime & Justice
English schools see first drop in suspensions since pandemic amid new smartphone ban and rising SEND support
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English schools see first drop in suspensions since pandemic amid new smartphone ban and rising SEND support
New data and reports show a 4% fall in suspensions, a record increase in special needs support, and the introduction of a legal smartphone ban.
- School suspensions in England fell by 4% in 2024/25 to 913,000, the first annual decline since the pandemic, while permanent exclusions dropped 9%.
- An independent inquiry concluded the education system is failing white working-class children and recommended 24 reforms, including expanded apprenticeships and free local transport for under-21s.
- A smartphone ban in schools came into force on 29 June, legally requiring head teachers to ensure phone-free environments during the school day.
- The number of children with education, health and care plans (EHCPs) rose by 12.5% to a record 700,000, the highest yearly increase since the system began.
Coverage
5 outlets — read the original reporting
School suspensions fall in England for the first time since Covid
bbc.co.uk
Pupil put in isolation booth for more than half a school year, BBC learns
bbc.co.uk
White working-class children failed by education system, says inquiry
bbc.co.uk
A smartphone ban in English schools is coming into force. What's changing?
bbc.co.uk
Number of children getting special educational needs support hits another record high
bbc.co.uk
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