Most Sheffield children suspended multiple times before getting help
Developing story first seen 3 hours ago
New details from Sheffield Council’s review say 65 per cent of children examined could have received help earlier, but only got support after their difficulties had worsened. The findings add to concerns about rising permanent exclusions and increasing pressure on alternative and specialist education.
One in five children reviewed had no support before suspension or exclusion, while many were suspended repeatedly before receiving coordinated help. The report cites poor information sharing, fragmented referral routes and the transition to secondary school as barriers. Alternative provision spending reached £14.38 million in 2025/26, more than double the 2020/21 figure; councillors are due to discuss an early intervention strategy on 3 November.
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In short
- 65 per cent could have received help earlier.
- One in five had no support before suspension or exclusion.
- Sheffield’s alternative provision spending reached £14.38 million.
How this story developed
- 1 hour ago A Sheffield Council review found that many children at risk of exclusion could have received help earlier, but support often arrived only after their difficulties had worsened. The findings matter as permanent exclusions are rising and demand for alternative and specialist education is increasing.
- 1 hour ago New details from Sheffield Council’s review say 65 per cent of children examined could have received help earlier, but only got support after their difficulties had worsened. The findings add to concerns about rising permanent exclusions and increasing pressure on alternative and specialist education.