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Exclusions

Information on exclusions

 

On this page, you can find information advice and support on exclusions from maintained schools, academies and pupil referral units (PRUs) in England. 

 

If a school exclude a child for more than 5 days, the school must arrange suitable full-time education from the sixth school day. Schools can exclude a pupil for a maximum of 45 days per academic year. Anything above this will result in permanent exclusion

It's important to note that schools can only exclude for disciplinary reasons. They are not permitted to exclude a pupil because they are unable to meet their needs.

The statutory guidance ‘Exclusion from maintained schools, academies and pupil referral units in England’ does confirm at paragraph 14 that ‘informal’ or ‘unofficial’ exclusions, such as sending pupils home ‘to cool off’, are unlawful, regardless of whether they occur with the agreement of parents or carers. 

This guidance includes children who are below compulsory school age (those under 5), and young people who are above compulsory school age (those in sixth form).

For information on exclusions, including your parental responsibilities, please read visit the Gov.uk exclusions page. You can find this in the 'Additional Support' section. 

 

What can I do if my child does not have an education health & care plan (EHC plan)?

 

  • You can ask the school if they can offer SEN Support If your child isn't already receiving this
  • You can request an immediate review of the SEN Support currently being provided (if relevant)
  • You can have discussions with the school about requesting an EHC Needs Assessment
  • You can consider following the school's complaints policy

 

What do I do if my child has an education health & care plan (EHC plan)?

 

  • If provision in Section F has not been followed, you are able to complain to the local authority as schools have a legal duty to follow the provision set out in the EHC plan. 
  • You can request an early annual review (interim review) of the EHC plan
  • If the EHC plan is outdated or you feel it doesn't meet the needs of your child, you can request a re-assessment 
  • You can arrange a meeting at the school to discuss further support

 

 

Additional information, advice & support on exclusions

 

IPSEA - Exclusion from School 

 

Contact - Exclusions

 

Exclusions Information (Gov.uk) 

 

You can also view the statutory guidance on exclusions from mantained schools, academies and pupil referral units (PRUs) in England on the following link below: 

 

JustForKidsLaw - Exclusions Hub

 

ACE Education Advice - Exclusions