Flemish government approves action plan to tackle problem behaviour in schools
The Flemish government has approved a new action plan to tackle problem behaviour in schools, and, in extreme cases, radicalisation. The plan, proposed by education minister Zuhal Demir (N-VA), contains around 30 recommendations and will take effect next school year.
According to Demir, the initiative was prompted by a sharp rise in incidents across Flemish schools. “In secondary education, the number of student suspensions went from 13,000 in 2021 to 35,000 last school year. In the same period, they went from 255 to 1,286 in primary education,” she said in the Flemish Parliament. “We have a behavioural problem in our schools. This is not a peripheral phenomenon, but a major problem. There's no way we can continue like this.”
Prevention, guidance and discipline
The plan introduces a series of measures aimed at prevention, guidance and discipline. Every school will be required to appoint a behavioural expert trained in classroom management and sanctions, who will, in turn, train staff and guide students. Schools will also receive a step-by-step plan for handling incidents involving violence, bullying, sexting or online gossip accounts.
The Education Inspectorate will be tasked with monitoring school climate and discipline policies more closely, including anti-bullying strategies. If a school’s approach is deemed insufficient, it will be required to seek external guidance. The government also aims to ensure that excluded students can still find placement elsewhere; schools may only refuse enrolment if alternative placement can be arranged within the Local Consultation Platform (LOP).
Schools confronted with extreme behaviour will be given additional powers. School regulations must state that principals may inspect lockers or school bags when there is a concrete reason, though preventive checks remain prohibited. If a student refuses, disciplinary measures may follow.
“This plan provides school teams with the support and inspiration many are looking for to better deal with challenging behaviour at school,” said Hannelore Goeman (Vooruit). “However, we do believe that additional support is needed, both in the classroom and at school, to truly make this a success.” She also emphasised that “frisking is only permitted after parents have given their consent through the school regulations and if the principal deems it necessary.”
“A strong school policy requires trust"
The plan was softened following protests from education providers and coalition partners CD&V and Vooruit, who opposed the introduction of new oversight structures and compulsory inspections. The final text clarifies that a proposed “task force” will have only an advisory role and that principals “will not be required to check lockers and backpacks.”
Education providers welcomed these revisions but urged further dialogue. “A strong school policy requires trust, clear roles and sustainable support,” said Walentina Cools, director-general of municipal education (OVSG). “It works better when schools can collaborate with a trusted support service than with many different or new structures.”
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