Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson says pupils should not be sent to “inclusion bases” as a punishment for poor behaviour. She argues that some schools are misusing the facilities, which are intended to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The comments come as part of a wider concern that practices in mainstream schools may not be aligning with the purpose of inclusion-based provision.
Phillipson’s position is that inclusion bases should be used appropriately for safeguarding and meeting identified needs, rather than serving as a disciplinary alternative. She suggests that the current level of use may be too broad and that schools need clearer guidance and oversight to ensure students are placed there for legitimate SEND-related reasons.
The reports state that Phillipson is calling for an approach that protects pupils’ rights and ensures support is delivered through appropriate provision, rather than exclusion-like measures within the school setting. The coverage reflects the debate over how schools manage challenging behaviour while maintaining inclusive education.
