Greenwich Secondary Schools See Rise in Suspensions Amidst Growing Pupil Needs

Greenwich secondary schools have experienced a notable increase in pupil suspensions, a trend mirroring national patterns and linked to a rise in complex pupil needs. The findings were discussed at the Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel meeting on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

A young child with colorful paint on their face and hands smiles at the camera, representing the focus on children and young people in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.
A young child with colorful paint on their face and hands smiles at the camera, representing the focus on children and young people in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

While permanent exclusion rates in Royal Greenwich schools remain exceptionally low, with primary schools reporting zero permanent exclusions, secondary school suspension rates have risen. This increase is attributed to a growing number of pupils presenting with complex needs, alongside challenges such as longer waiting times for assessments and a limited availability of specialist provision.

However, significant investment is being made to address SEND provision. A £36.4 million investment in SEND provision was noted at the meeting, alongside efforts to strengthen fostering, kinship care, and corporate parenting. The launch of 'Families First in Greenwich' was presented as a transformation programme for children's social care, focusing on early help and relational practice. This programme includes the expansion of Rowan Wood as an all-through SEND school and the development of a new multi-use SEND centre at Bexley Road. These developments aim to increase capacity, improve pathways, and reduce reliance on out-of-borough provision, ensuring children and young people with SEND can access high-quality education closer to home.

A line graph showing the suspension rates for primary and secondary schools in Greenwich, England, and London between 2021-22 and 2023-24.
A line graph showing the suspension rates for primary and secondary schools in Greenwich, England, and London between 2021-22 and 2023-24.

The Suspensions, Exclusions and Fair Access Panel Report for the academic year 2024-25 ¹ indicates that male pupils, those with Special Educational Needs (SEN), and pupils eligible for Free School Meals are more likely to face suspensions. The report highlights that these disparities offer opportunities to strengthen inclusive practices and provide tailored support for pupils with additional needs.

In response to these trends, the Inclusion Service is focusing on early intervention and collaborative approaches. The service works closely with schools, families, and partner agencies to provide timely, targeted support. This includes a robust system of oversight and challenge to ensure exclusions are a last resort, and the promotion of managed moves as a viable alternative to permanent exclusion.

The Fair Access Panel (FAP) plays a critical role in securing timely placements for children who are harder to place. The panel meets regularly with senior representatives from schools and other agencies, including social care and SEND services, to consider all evidence and determine the most appropriate educational provision. The number of secondary FAP cases has fallen significantly in 2024/25, reflecting the sustained impact of the Inclusion Support Service's early intervention approaches.

To further address the rise in suspensions, the Inclusion Service is prioritising early identification and intervention through trauma-informed and relational practices. Schools will also face enhanced scrutiny to ensure consistent application of reasonable adjustments for students with SEND, aiming to reduce repeat exclusions and improve overall educational outcomes.

¹ Suspensions Exclusions and Fair Access Panel Report for the academic year 2024-25