Pupils’ views on mainstream reintegration from alternative provision: a Q methodological study

This study explores the views of children and young people who have experienced school exclusion and placement in alternative educational provision regarding which factors supported their reintegration into mainstream schools. Nine primary and secondary pupils participated, aged between 10–16 years. The study uses Q methodology and is emancipatory in its aim to facilitate the increased participation and empowerment of pupils who have successfully reintegrated from Pupil Referral Units to the mainstream. The focus of the study, based on an eco-systemic perspective and on a model of positive psychology, is on pupils’ views of ‘what works.’ The study suggests an eco-systemic reintegration model which reflects pupils’ views on best practices regarding reintegration. The authors conclude that reintegration success needs to be considered in context and the role of each ‘system’ surrounding the child needs to be acknowledged.