The latest Department for Education data show Enfield schools maintained the third-lowest permanent exclusion rate in London, highlighting the commitment to positive student outcomes in the borough.The data for the academic year 2022/23 has once again demonstrated that the collaborative effort between schools, Enfield Council and partner oraganisations is creating inclusive and supportive learning environments. Nationally and regionally, there has been an increase in permanent exclusions in recent years. However, Enfield's performance bucks this trend, placing the borough sixth among all local authorities in England* for the lowest permanent exclusion rate. Notably, there were no permanent exclusions in Enfield's primary schools, marking an impressive eight consecutive years of this positive trend. This success is a testament to the work of the Council’s Primary Behaviour Support Service known as SWERRL (strengthening wellbeing, emotional health, relationships and readiness for learning), which has fostered strong relationships with schools.
Enfield's secondary schools have also witnessed significant improvements in behaviour. Statistics show an 86% decrease in the number of permanent exclusions in Enfield since 2017/18, from 57 to eight in 2022/23.
The Cabinet Member for Community Cohesion and Enforcement at Enfield Council, Cllr Gina Needs, said: "The Department for Education's data on permanent exclusion rates is a testament to the positive work being done in Enfield. Early identification and support for children who need additional help are crucial in preventing the drastic measure of permanent exclusion."
The Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Abdul Abdullahi added: “The low permanent exclusion rates in Enfield are a result of the effective collaboration between school-based support services who have helped to identify young people who require additional support and have fostered trusted relationships with schools and school leaders.”