Glasgow school exclusions reduced by 25%

The number of young people excluded from school in Glasgow has fallen by 25% - for the second year running.

Figures from the city council showed that there were 2,984 pupils excluded in 2009/2010, compared to 3,985 in the previous 12 months.

The number of "serious incidents" recorded in schools also fell by 33%.

Glasgow City Council said the drop was down to an approach which supported disruptive pupils rather than automatically opting for exclusion.

Figures from the authority showed that exclusion incidents in secondary schools fell by 26.3% in the past year compared to a 25.3% drop in the previous 12 months.

Exclusion incidents in primary schools showed a reduction of 25% - up from 13% the previous year.

There was a reduction of 4% in exclusions in additional support for learning (ASL) schools, compared to a 8% cut last year.

Councillor Paul Rooney, executive member for education, said: "Although these figures are a fantastic achievement, we cannot afford to be complacent and is vital that exclusion remains an option to schools if this is necessary to protect other youngsters and staff.

"Glasgow has a zero tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour in our schools.

"However, young people, school communities and society as a whole benefit if we work together with them and their families, and other agencies where appropriate, to solve the problems that lead to bad behaviour in the classroom."