Responding to the new report by the Children and Young People's Mental Health Coalition on pupil behaviour and mental health, James Bowen, assistant general secretary at school leaders' union NAHT, said:

“This is an important report and one that everyone involved in education should read and reflect on. It is vital that we understand the link between pupil behaviour and mental health.

"Creating a positive, inclusive and purposeful learning environment will always be a high priority for school leaders. Well-understood behaviour policies are an important part of this as they set out clear expectations for everyone in the school community.

"Most schools take a balanced approach to supporting positive behaviour and it is important to highlight that for the large majority of pupils these whole-school approaches work well.

"Where individual pupils have more complex behavioural needs, it is right that additional support is put in place and it is essential that all schools consider the link between behaviour, mental health and SEND.

"However, as this report rightly points out, schools cannot do this alone. A lack of access to specialist expertise and support services means that schools are often having to support those with the highest needs with very few resources. Proper investment in specialist services to support schools and young people is essential if we are to make a real difference for these children and young people.”