Why Are School Exclusions Rising When Behaviour Policies Are Clear?

In this episode, I explore a question that many schools are grappling with: Why are exclusions continuing to rise despite behaviour policies becoming clearer and more structured than ever before?

Drawing on my experience as an Educational Psychologist, I examine the growing reliance on consequence-driven behaviour systems and explore why these approaches often fail to create lasting change. While clear expectations and boundaries have their place, behaviour does not happen in isolation. Children's experiences of school are shaped by relationships, emotional regulation, and their sense of belonging.

Throughout the episode, I discuss how behaviour is often viewed as the problem itself rather than a signal that something deeper may be happening. I explore the impact of sensory, emotional, and social development on a child's ability to regulate their behaviour, particularly for neurodiverse young people navigating busy and demanding school environments.

I also share practical alternatives that schools can use to strengthen relationships, improve accountability, and reduce conflict. From restorative approaches to proactive regulation strategies, this episode focuses on creating school cultures where young people feel seen, supported, and understood.

Ultimately, this episode challenges us to consider whether behaviour policies alone can solve behaviour challenges, or whether meaningful relationships remain the most powerful tool we have.

In This Episode, I Explore

• Why exclusions continue to rise despite increasingly strict behaviour policies.
• The difference between consequence-driven systems and relational approaches.
• How sensory, language, emotional, and cognitive development influence behaviour.
• Why neurodiverse pupils may find school environments particularly overwhelming.
• The role relationships play in helping young people regulate emotions.
• How restorative approaches can create genuine accountability and repair harm.

Why This Episode Matters

Across education, schools are facing increasing challenges around behaviour, attendance, wellbeing and exclusion.

While many systems focus on consequences and compliance, this episode explores a different perspective: that behaviour is deeply connected to relationships, emotional safety, and a child's experience of belonging.

Understanding what sits beneath behaviour can help schools move beyond simply managing incidents and towards creating environments where young people are more able to engage, regulate, and succeed.

If you're a teacher, school leader, educational psychologist, or parent, this episode offers practical insights into how relationships can become a powerful foundation for both behaviour and learning.

🎧 Listen now and discover why the strongest behaviour strategy may not be a policy at all but the relationships we build every day.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on behaviour policies and exclusions?

Have you seen relational approaches make a difference in your school or setting?

Connect with Me

Instagram: @‌dradammcartney
Website: dradammccartney.com
YouTube: @‌Dr.AdamMcCartney