What makes for a successful re-integration from a pupil referral unit to mainstream education? An applied research project

Abstract

A qualitative research project was carried out in order to explore the views of Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) and mainstream school staff regarding the process of re-integration of secondary school age pupils from the PRU to mainstream school. The views of 11 PRU staff members, six mainstream staff members and a member of the Behaviour Support Service were sought through focus groups regarding the re-integration of pupils from the PRU to mainstream education. Thematic Analysis of the data suggested that effective re-integration is perceived to be most successful when particular factors at the child, family, school and systemic levels are in place, such as the child wanting to return to mainstream school, support from and engagement of parents and timely re-integration into a truly inclusive mainstream setting. Suggested developments to improve the process and practice of re-integration in the future were also identified. The implications of the research findings are discussed.