Positive Alternatives to School Exclusion looks at what schools can do to build more harmonious communities and engage students - particularly those at risk of exclusion - more productively in all areas of school life. It describes the Positive Alternatives to School Exclusion Project, a multi-phase, collaborative initiative based at the School of Education, University of Cambridge. Drawing on the perspectives of staff and pupils, the authors provide detailed case studies of the approaches and strategies being adopted in a variety of settings (primary, secondary and FE) to foster inclusion and reduce and prevent exclusion. It also identifies a number of different frameworks, drawn from the case studies, which can be used by practitioners working in other settings to support their own reflection and development work. Particular importance is placed, throughout the book, on valuing the domain of personal experience in the life of the school community. The authors explore this theme in detail, suggesting ways in which it might become a priority focus of further development work in schools.

`... an excellent volume, one which should become essential reading for students of education, especially those at the start of their careers. Incidentally, not only is the book concise; unusually for a jointly-authored book it is also hard to see the joins; it really does read well′ - Scottish Affairs `An interesting comparison of pairs of schools which differed in the extent to which they excluded, the authors found several differences: the schools′ views on what education is all about; the way the curriculum is structured; relations with parents; and decision-making about exclusion′ - Times Educational Supplement Exclusion from school is a major concern for teachers, parents and children, and features in government initiatives. This book takes a broad look at exclusion, mapping the extent of exclusions and showing what factors can lead to children being excluded, whether permanently or informally, from school. The authors focus on various kinds of in-school alternatives to exclusion. They show how schools and teachers can make a difference to young people′s emotional and social development, as well as to their cognitive-intellectual development. For many children with difficulties in their families or communities, school can be a safe and supportive refuge. School is also much more than just the subjects on the timetable, and the authors look in detail at the hidden curriculum, or school ethos, as a means of preventing exclusion. The book goes beyond in-school alternatives to consider the effectiveness of out-of-school provision, and raises questions about how to conceptualize effectiveness. The authors consider perspectives on exclusion from other countries including the United States, and place exclusion from school in the broader context of social exclusion.

This book explores the issues surrounding girls and young women who are seen as troubled or troublesome. It sets out to further our understanding of young women who face or cause difficulties, offering a diverse and complex view. Recognising the increasing importance of schools as the primary source of support for girls and young women, the chapters discuss the implications for practice of teachers and other professionals, covering important issues like: girls' classroom behaviour mental health problems violence and sexuality exclusion and community offences. By presenting a range of theoretical perspectives, readers of this book will be encouraged to reflect on what underpins the actions of girls and young women and take their voices seriously. It will be essential reading for practitioners and professionals in Education, as well as students and academics in the field.

In a pamphlet published in 2005 Mary Warnock expressed concerns about some of the concepts that she had helped to introduce in the field of special education almost three decades earlier. She argued that the role of special schools was unclear and the pursuit of inclusion had become too ideological. This highly topical book suggests that distinctions should be made between kinds of special needs and the possibility addressed that some SEN children might be happier and more effective as learners within non-mainstream settings. Her call for a government review to investigate these problems raised its media profile, fuelling the debate. This book pulls together contributions from all sides of the argument. An essential read for anyone involved in special education as well as the philosophy and ethics of education this book truly breaks new ground.

Addressing the new standards for newly qualified teachers in the area of helping troubled pupils, this book explores the circumstances behind pupils' problems and the role that schools can play in meeting their needs.

This comprehensive resource provides a range of perspectives on inclusion, giving Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (SENCOs) the opportunity to consider the principles and practice that underpin their leadership role. Offering a blend of academic and professional knowledge, each chapter explores different aspects of the role of the SENCO and supports areas that will be considered as part of the National Award for SENCOs. A variety of essential topics are covered, from the importance of SEND provision and multi-disciplinary practice, to the role of the SENCO and leadership. Key features of this book include: Contributions by leaders of the National Award for Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators working with trainee SENCOs across the country A focus on encouraging SENCOs to think deeply about their own individual practice through engagement with cutting-edge research A flexible structure that can be read as a whole, or dipped in and out of as professional learning needs require This book provides an opportunity for readers to engage with a multiplicity of voices and approaches, allowing them to critically explore their role as leaders of SEND provision in schools. It is an invaluable resource both for students and those already within the role of Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator.