THE number of pupils suspended from schools in Lancashire is shocking.

Details of the serious nature of some of the offences they have committed are also astounding.

Government figures revealed that 3,660 youngsters were suspended for attacks on pupils, 530 for attacks on staff and 4,543 for verbal abuse and threatening behaviour towards adults.

A further 92 were suspended for racial abuse, 102 for sexual misconduct and 479 for drug and alcohol-related incidents. Many of those suspended were repeat offenders, it has been revealed. This shows the difficulties which are being faced by teachers in the classroom.

The fact that only 600 pupils were permanently excluded also shows that schools are not punishing them with the ultimate sanction.

This is because steps have been taken to limit the number of exclusions but critics says this is undermining the authority of headteachers.

There is a fine balance between keeping problem children in education and protecting teachers and other pupils.

Schools should be supported if they decide that there is no alternative than to permanently exclude a student.