Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment his Department has made of the factors contributing to the exclusion rates of Gypsy and Traveller pupils.

The department is aware that some groups of children have a greater likelihood of permanent exclusion than others. The updated suspension and permanent exclusion guidance sets out that schools, local authorities and local partners should work together to understand what lies behind local trends, such as high rates of exclusions among one group. If they identify any gaps, they should act to ensure those who work with children have the training, services and support they need to address them. In addition, information is provided to governing boards on carefully considering the level of pupil moves and the characteristics of pupils who have been permanently excluded to ensure the sanction is only used when absolutely necessary. The revised guidance will be published shortly