Exclusion From School: A First Step in Exclusion From Society?

Abstract

SUMMARY. In recent years increasing concerns have been expressed about the behaviour of young people in Britain and responses to it. Within schools this has focused on the nature and incidence of violent and disruptive behaviour displayed by children and levels of exclusion. Perceptions that ‘too many children’ are excluded from school have prompted inquiries by the government, professional teaching associations and independent researchers and generated considerable media interest. This paper analyses existing evidence and identifies remaining gaps in knowledge concerning exclusion from school. In conclusion the authors argue that an adequate understanding of exclusion from school can only be achieved by locating it within the wider debate concerning social control and civic exclusion.