A petition to increase fines for Schools that fail to uphold Independent Review Panel decisions and promote fairness in School Exclusions.

Increasing accountability and ensuring fairness in School exclusion decisions.

The number of school exclusions across the UK is rising alarmingly, with a 44% increase in permanent exclusions from 6,500 in 2021/22 to 9,400 in 2022/23. Pupils on the autism spectrum have faced exclusion rates between 45% and 100% higher over the past five years. Additionally, children from certain ethnic minority backgrounds are up to four times more likely to be excluded from mainstream schools. 

These exclusions have a profound impact on the lives of children and their families. Disturbingly, evidence shows that 42% of the prison population were permanently excluded from school, and 63% have experienced exclusion in some form.

Currently, schools that do not comply with Independent Review Panel (IRP) decisions to reinstate a child face a maximum fine of just £4,000. Too often, schools choose to pay this fine rather than comply with the IRP's decision, effectively bypassing the process and denying children the right to education. This not only undermines the IRP's role but also perpetuates a culture of exclusion and discrimination.

We, the undersigned, call on the UK Parliament and the Department for Education to take the following actions:

1. Increase the Fine for Non-Compliance:  Raise the fine for schools that fail to uphold IRP decisions to an amount that serves as a genuine deterrent, reflecting the serious impact of exclusion on a child’s life. The current fine of £4,000 is insufficient; a higher amount should be determined in consultation with stakeholders, including educators, parents, and advocacy groups.

2. Strengthen Accountability and Transparency in Exclusions: Ensure that decisions to exclude a child are not solely at the discretion of the headteacher. Exclusion decisions should require a multi-disciplinary panel to avoid bias and promote fairness. Additionally, all evidence provided by schools to panels should be comprehensive, including both positive and negative aspects of the child's behavior and school experience.

3. Enhance Training for Schools: Implement mandatory training for school staff on lawful exclusion practices, unconscious bias, and inclusive education. This training should include a focus on supporting children with additional needs and from minority backgrounds, who are disproportionately affected by exclusions.

4. Improve Access to Information and Support for Parents: Provide parents with clearer access to information regarding their rights and the exclusion process. Ensure they have support in preparing for IRP hearings and better access to school documents. This support should be provided independently to help level the playing field between schools and families.

5. Prohibit Fabrication of Data: Introduce measures to prevent schools from manipulating or fabricating data to justify exclusions. Schools should be required to provide transparent and accurate records that reflect the child's full experience, not just negative incidents.

Why This Matters - 
Every child has the right to education, and unjust exclusions can have devastating long-term effects on their well-being, development, and future opportunities. It is essential to hold schools accountable and ensure they adhere to fair practices that support all children, particularly those who are most vulnerable.

By signing this petition, we urge the UK Government to take immediate action to protect children's rights and promote a more just and inclusive education system.