The Alarming Rise of Education Disengagement Among Vulnerable Children

Introduction

A recent report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) and The Difference has highlighted a disturbing trend in education: more children than ever are missing out on school. The number of lost learning days has surged by nearly 70% over five years, with vulnerable children being the hardest hit. This issue is compounded by "invisible" moves, where children are moved between schools without formal records, leaving their educational trajectories unmonitored.

The Scale of the Problem

The data paints a grim picture. In 2019, 6.8 million learning days were lost to suspensions and absences, a figure that ballooned to 11.5 million by 2023. For every child formally excluded, ten more face undocumented moves, such as managed moves or off-rolling. These practices, often informal or even illegal, mean that the system loses track of these children, leaving them without support and at risk of falling through the cracks.

Personal Stories of Disengagement

Gary Johns’ story illustrates this systemic failure. At 14, Gary left school after spending days in isolation for behavioral issues, with no alternative education offered. It wasn’t until a mentor from CAPE reached out that he found his way back to education, now pursuing carpentry at 17. His journey underscores the critical role of mentors and the need for alternative education paths.

Hussein Hussein of CAPE Mentor highlights another barrier: schools avoiding children with behavioral records to protect their performance metrics. This practice, justified as being in the child’s best interest, neglects the child’s needs and perpetuates exclusion.

The Impact of Unaddressed Trauma

Taejon Joseph-Andrews’ experience after losing his nan reveals how grief can lead to exclusion. His exclusion and managed moves were due to misunderstood behavior, reflecting a systemic failure to address emotional needs. His hope to re-enter mainstream education by year 11 illustrates the potential for recovery with proper support.

Proposed Solutions

The report calls for government action, including legislation to track children moved from schools, ensuring they remain in education. It also advocates for fairer admissions practices to prevent schools from discarding disadvantaged students. An £850 million investment in inclusion could support half a million children and reduce long-term public costs.

The Economic Case for Inclusion

Exclusion’s economic impact is significant, with each excluded child costing £170,000 in lost taxes and benefits. The invisible moves mean the actual cost is far higher. Addressing this issue is not only about equity but also economic prudence, as inclusion programs can pay for themselves over time.

Conclusion

The education system is failing its most vulnerable members. Children are being excluded without support, with their movements untracked and their needs unmet. To rectify this, better tracking, fairer admissions, and investment in inclusion programs are essential. By addressing these issues, we can ensure no child is left behind, benefiting both individuals and society.