A mum whose son has been banned from school today pleaded for more help in coping with him Katrina Ward accepts that nine-year-old John behaves badly in class - but fears that suspending him will only make his behaviour worse.

Katrina, 26, of Laindon, said: "He doesn't want to be at school, that is why he behaves badly, so he can be sent home."

Excluded - Katrina Ward thinks suspending her son from school will only make his behaviour worse Picture: NICK ANSELL

John has been excluded from Bluehouse Junior School for the second time since he started four years ago. But his mum fears the school is giving up on him.

Mrs Ward said: "The headteacher told me she couldn't cope and didn't want John at school for at least ten days.

"I want him to have an education and the only way that will happen is if he is in the classroom.

"He should be at school. He may keep misbehaving but telling him he doesn't have to come back to school means he is getting away with it."

Mrs Ward insists she is trying to help John, but thinks the school should also provide support.

She said: "He sees a psychiatrist and I hope that will help him get back on track."

The school declined to comment, but a spokesman for Essex County Council said: "This child is on his second suspension because of a disciplinary issue, this was the school's decision.

"The headteacher is sensitive to any concern from parents regarding school issues.

"We have a behavioural support team that provides a service to schools.

"We also have behavioural support staff available to go into the classroom and help out with individual children, but this is a matter for the school."

Published Tuesday, April 8, 2003