Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, if he will publish the evidence his Department holds on the impact of Behaviour Hubs programme on educational provision since that programme began.

As the Behaviour Hubs programme has not yet been operational for a full year, the department are unable to comment on its impact. The effectiveness of the programme is being thoroughly evaluated, and an interim report will be published in 2023, followed by a final report in 2025. Early feedback from the schools being supported has been very positive, noting the quality and inclusivity of the advice they are receiving.

All partner schools self-refer to the Behaviour Hubs programme. To date, the department has received 471 applications to be partner schools or partner multi-academy trusts.

All partner schools are required to attend a mandatory module on special educational needs and disabilities in their first term. This covers statutory responsibilities, barriers facing, and support strategies for pupils with SEND and how to ensure policies and practices are fully inclusive.

All lead schools have to meet a strict eligibility criteria to apply for the programme. All schools are required to be Ofsted rated Outstanding, Good with Outstanding behaviour and attitudes, or Good with an exceptional application. Primary school applicants are also required to have above average reading, writing, and maths attainment. Secondary school applicants need to be above average for Progress and Attainment 8, with 2018/19 Ebacc entries of at least 45%. All schools submit a written application, undergo a series of due diligence checks, and an online assessment process. This includes focus groups with pupils, teachers, non-teaching staff, parents, and carers as well as an unseen activity and an interview with senior leaders. Where a school did not meet all criteria, they were still able to apply and be considered alongside an exceptional application.