The NSW Department of Education data provides information on short and long suspensions, as well as expulsions in government schools.

The most recent reporting period was from 2016, and during this time 2412 students received a short suspension (up to four school days).

A further 964 students received a long suspension (up to 20 school days).

The data also shows that some students received multiple suspensions during the school year.

During 2016, 18 students were expelled from schools across Western NSW – 10 for misbehaving and eight for ‘unsatisfactory participation’.

However, the number of students suspended and expelled has dropped when compared to 2013 data.

During that school year, 3593 students were suspended 6223 times, while 28 students were expelled (13 for misbehaviour and 15 for unsatisfactory participation).

A NSW Department of Education spokesman said public schools set high expectations for the behaviour of students and discipline standards.

“Schools engage a range of individual, class and whole school approaches to manage challenging or disruptive behaviour, particularly where it impacts on the learning of others,” he said.

“Principals are authorised to take decisive action when the safety and/or wellbeing of others is at risk, or where a student has an ongoing history of disruptive behaviour that impacts on their learning and/or wellbeing, or the learning or wellbeing of others.”

The spokesman said in these contexts suspension could be used as part of a wider strategy.

“Suspension allows time for the school to work with the student, their family and related support services to put in place personalised learning and support for students to successfully return to class,” he said.

“Schools work closely with parents to resolve suspension and improve the behaviour of students.”

A short suspension can be imposed for continued disobedience or aggressive behaviour.

A long suspension can be imposed for physical violence; use or possession of a prohibited weapon, firearm or knife; possession, supply or use of a suspected illegal substance. It can also be imposed for serious criminal behaviour related to the school; use of an implement as a weapon; or persistent or serious misbehaviour.