What Works – Effectiveness of interventions to reduce school exclusion in the UK

School exclusion is increasingly recognised as a warning sign for future risk; particularly involvement in crime, violence, or exploitation. Many young people in custody have previously been excluded from school. School exclusion can disconnect young people from education, trusted adults, and support systems that might otherwise help them stay on track.

School exclusions, especially suspensions, have risen in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic had a further negative effect by disrupting education and support. National voices such as Ofsted and the Children’s Commissioner have raised concerns about the link between school exclusion and youth vulnerability.

In response, the Thames Valley Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) commissioned this review to find out what is known about ‘what works’ to reduce school exclusions. The aim is to inform local pilot projects that keep young people in education and away from harm.

Seven UK-based studies were reviewed, each evaluating different interventions to reduce school exclusion. These included:

What Works – Effectiveness of interventions to reduce school exclusion in the UKDownload