Across all forms of lost learning, young people from disadvantaged backgrounds are over-represented, with permanent exclusion rates four times higher and persistent absence rates two times higher than their better-off peers.
The consequences of school exclusion are long-term and severe. On average, pupils suspended even once are 12 months behind their peers. Most do not pass their English and maths GCSEs – and the pass percentage falls to less than 5% for students who sit their GCSEs in alternative provision. At age 24, young people who were suspended during secondary school are twice as likely to be out of education, employment, or training.
If we want young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to succeed in school, work, and life, we need to make sure they have the support they need to stay in the classroom. That’s why Impetus is committed to tackling school engagement, from school absence to permanent exclusion.
Understanding the problem
Although we know the negative outcomes associated with school exclusion, we need more research on how to boost attendance, reduce suspensions, and improve the life chances of those who have been excluded.
We’re learning from our portfolio partners in the Engage Fund – which, in partnership with The Henry Smith Charity, supports organisations that are working to reduce school exclusion and improve outcomes for young people in alternative provision. We’re using insights from these organisations to better understand the most promising interventions to keep young people in school.
We’ve also commissioned research to better understand the scope of the problem, including a report with Public First which looked at parents’ understanding of the attendance crisis, and two with the Education Policy Institute on the education and early adult outcomes of young people who have been suspended and excluded from school.
Now, we’re trying to apply what we’ve learned to practical solutions for young people.
Who Is Losing Learning?
In partnership with the Institute for Public Policy Research, The Difference, and Mission 44, Impetus established the Who Is Losing Learning? Coalition (WiLL) to reveal the extent of post-pandemic lost learning and its disproportionate impact on young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Now, after publishing our findings in September, we’re working toward solutions. As part of the WiLL Solutions Council, we’re developing policies and practices that place paramount importance on the wellbeing, inclusion, and success of all pupils, but particularly those most who miss the most learning, while also building partnerships between parents and schools through resources and support.
Through our influencing efforts, we’re working to ensure that the issue of school engagement stays on the government’s agenda – and that all students get the support they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond.