About the INclude Service

About us

Nottingham City’s INclude Service was created in partnership with schools, parents and carers, and professionals. It shares guidance and practical steps to help schools support and meet the needs of children who show challenging behaviour. Our goal is to keep every child learning in a welcoming, high-quality environment and to help them reach their full potential.

The INclude service provides a coordinated and stepped approach to help schools support positive behaviour. We work together with schools, families, the local authority, and other partners to make sure every child—whatever their background or needs—gets the right support and the chance to succeed.

Our Vision

Our goal is to make sure every child in Nottingham feels included, valued, and supported—so they can belong, thrive, and achieve as part of an inclusive school community.

We will work closely with schools and local communities to build inclusive practices and a positive culture, reducing exclusions and suspensions and improving attendance.
Our purpose is to give every child the best chance to succeed in education and look forward to a positive future where they can contribute to their community, their city, and society.

Permanent exclusions and suspensions have risen significantly across England in recent years. Nottingham City having significantly higher rates than the national average. These exclusions disproportionately affect the most vulnerable children, impacting their life chances and wellbeing.

Historically, Nottingham City had one of the highest permanent exclusion rates in the country, and the trend had been worsening since 2020.​ 2024/25 was the first year to see an overall reduction in exclusion by 13.3% in the city.​

‘The impact of exclusion goes far beyond the classroom, shaping a young person’s identity and future aspirations’ (The Children’s Society).

Improving behaviour requires collaboration. By pooling resources, expertise, and community support, we can provide early interventions, assist families, and develop consistent strategies that improve outcomes for all children. We work with schools, following a stepped approach that aligns with the level of risk of exclusion:

• Flexible stepped support to meet child, school and parent/carer needs.
• Transition support for children moving from specialist placements back into mainstream education.
• Signposting to training and guidance from services such as the Educational Psychology Service, Learning Support Team, Autism Team, CGL, Nottingham City (R)PI Solutions, Youth Justice, Social Care, AMARA, Early Help, MHST, CAMHS, SEND and Workforce Development. 
• Access to intervention placements at Denewood and Hope Academy (where applicable).
• Advice and consultation. 
• Opportunities to share good practice across schools and settings.

Phase 1 – Sept – Dec 2025

Phase 2 – Jan – July 2026