What assessment has the Minister made of the record high number of permanent exclusions in Welsh schools?
The Welsh Government has guidance in place for schools and local authorities on exclusions which covers options available to teachers to support them when dealing with behavioural issues. There are also guides available for both primary and secondary schools on ‘Behaviour Management in the classroom’. However, under local management of schools arrangements, it is the responsibility of schools to determine what to do in a particular situation, and ensure that it follows policies designed to promote positive behaviour and discipline across the school environment. Schools are required to have a written behaviour policy in place which sets explicit standards of behaviour.
In addition, we are currently revising our exclusion guidance.