Strict schools: Taking discipline too far?

Strict schools: Taking discipline too far?

June 30, 2026 · 38 min

About this episode

The episode investigates the implementation of strict discipline measures in schools across England and their impact on students' mental health.

File on 4 Investigates concerns about how some strict discipline measures are being implemented in schools across England. We discovered students internally excluded for around 20% of their lesson time, and some much longer. The Outwood Grange Academy in Wakefield put one pupil in an isolation booth for more than half of the academic year. We hear from a mother in Devon whose son Taylor took his own life, weeks after he’d expressed his frustration at what he saw as his school, Ivybridge Community College’s punitive and illogical rules. Presenter: Jane Deith Producer: Anna Meisel Production Co-ordinators: Tim Fernley & Tom Dunster Technical Producer: Cameron Ward Editor: Tara McDermott This programme contains reference to suicide and self harm. If you've been affected by some of the issues raised in this programme you can find out more about organisations that can help by going to www.bbc.co.uk/actionline.

People in this episode

Host: Jane Deith

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Outwood Grange Academy, Ivybridge Community College

Places: Wakefield, Devon, England

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