Excluded pupils

Exclusion from school is a very serious step and only the Head Teacher can exclude a pupil.

There are two types of exclusion:

• Fixed term exclusion
  Usually for a short period, or over lunch time.
• Permanent exclusion
  A child can't return to school unless re-instated.

Fixed term exclusions are usually for a short period (up to 45 days) or the lunchtime period, which is counted as half a day.

The pupil returns after the exclusion period has finished.

The Head Teacher will inform you in writing of the period of the exclusion and the reason for the decision.

In the case of one to five days exclusion, pupils should be excluded to home with work set by the school. 

Pupils must not be in a public place during school hours without a justifiable reason.

If your child is caught, you may be fined up to £100.

Full time education during the exlusion

If your child has been excluded for more than five days, they are entitled to full time education from the sixth day. This is provided by their home school using a range of alternative options.

Schools should aim to provide full time education from day one of the exclusion for a vulnerable child.

If you're unhappy about the exclusion

If you are unhappy about the exclusion you have the right to put your case to the Governing Body Discipline Committee.

If you want to put your case to the Governing Body Discipline Committee (exclusion must be 5 days or over) you should write to the Chair of Governors at the school.

Permanent exclusion means that the child cannot return to the school unless re-instated.

In the case of permanent exclusion, the procedures for fixed term exclusion will be followed.

Appeal a decision

If the Discipline Committee upholds the Head Teacher's decision to permanently exclude your child, you have the right to appeal to an Independent Review Panel.

If you decide to appeal it is important that you lodge your appeal within 15 school days from the date of the Discipline Committee decision.

If your child is not re-instated by the Independent Review Panel your child's name will be removed from the school roll.

What happens if your child is permanently excluded

If your child is permanently excluded, the Council has to provide other suitable education.

This may be a place in another school or other suitable arrangements may be made.

For more information please contact the Children and Families Education Support Service on 0191 424 6306.