Devon County Council is proposing a £21,000 fine for schools for each pupil they permanently exclude, sparking a heated debate about the implications for education and student welfare
The potential fines are part of discussions surrounding school funding for the 2025/26 academic year. While the council aims to improve inclusion, school leaders are concerned the move could force them to keep disruptive students in mainstream classrooms, potentially compromising safety and learning environments. They also fear the proposal might hinder access to alternative education for students who need specialised support, leaving them to struggle in unsuitable settings.
The council’s initiative stems from its pledge to prioritise inclusion after receiving a financial bailout for its special needs education budget earlier this year. In March, the government granted Devon County Council a £95 million "safety valve" payment to help address a £163 million deficit in special education funding. In return, the council committed to reducing overspending and improving inclusion efforts, aiming to achieve a balanced education budget by 2026/27.
"We want every young person in Devon to receive the best education possible, which means keeping pupils in school whenever feasible. Permanent exclusions should only be used as a last resort after exploring all other options," said Andrew Leadbetter, cabinet member for schools at Devon County Council. "Our goal is to collaborate with schools and partners to reduce exclusions," he added.
The number of school exclusions in Devon is projected to rise to 247 this year, up from 193 in 2023/24. The proposed £21,000 fine would cover the costs associated with an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) and administrative expenses.
"This is just a proposal at this stage, and we are seeking input from schools before making any decisions," Mr. Leadbetter emphasised. "We are in the midst of our annual budget consultation and actively encouraging schools to share their feedback. Together with the Schools Forum, we will carefully consider all responses before finalizing any plans," a council spokesperson stated.
The consultation reflects ongoing efforts to balance financial responsibility with providing equitable education opportunities across the county.
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