Plans approved for alternative schooling for excluded primary pupils in North Yorkshire
Council measures aim to improve outcomes for children as young as five
Last updated 16th Dec 2025
North Yorkshire Council’s executive has approved plans to lower the age range of Pupil Referral Units (PRUs), enabling them to provide tailored education for primary school-aged children excluded from mainstream education.
The changes come in response to a rise in permanent exclusions of primary school children, which have increased from five cases in 2021/22 to 25 pupils in 2024/25.
The council's executive member for education, learning and skills, Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, said the decision aims to ensure better support for these young pupils:
"We always want to ensure that we provide the very best support we can to all pupils in North Yorkshire. The consultation received significant responses, giving confidence that the change to accommodate children as young as five in our PRUs has widespread support."
Approved plans will lower the age limit at PRUs such as The Rubicon Centre in Selby, The Sunbeck Centre in Northallerton, and The Craven Pupil Referral Service in Skipton, allowing these facilities to offer alternative schooling to children aged five to 16.
Addressing the needs of excluded children
North Yorkshire Council is legally responsible for arranging suitable full-time education within six days for permanently excluded children across the county.
A consultation held earlier this year sought views from parents, carers, education professionals, and the wider community. Of the 254 responses received between 22nd September and 7th November, 79% supported providing primary-age education within PRUs.
Cllr Wilkinson added: "This support will help us better meet the needs of each child and provide them with the resources to succeed in a supportive environment."