Suspension and permanent exclusion policy: model and examples

Adapt our model suspension and permanent exclusion policy to fit your school's context so you can be sure you're compliant. Also see examples from other schools.

Last reviewed on 9 October 2024See updates
Ref: 41716
Statutory/mandatory for:
Maintained schools
Academies
Free schools
Pupil referral units
Contents
  1. Download our model policy
  2. Examples from schools

Download our model policy

Adapt our model policy to suit your school's context. 

It has been approved by Forbes Solicitors and is based on the DfE's statutory guidance.

Model policy: suspension and permanent exclusion DOC, 315.0 KB
Download

For more model policies and complete policy support from The Key, go to our Policy Expert.

Examples from schools

Primary schools

Benjamin Adlard Primary School, an academy in Lincolnshire, follows the exclusions policy set by the Anthem Schools Trust. The policy includes:

  • Factors the headteacher will take into account when considering an exclusion or suspension
  • The approach the school takes when dealing with behaviour linked to a protected characteristic
  • A flowchart explaining the governing board's duties to review a decision to permanently exclude a pupil

Charles Dickens Primary School, an academy in Southwark, uses a suspensions and exclusions policy set by The Charter Schools Educational Trust. The policy includes sections on:

  • The use of CCTV, witness evidence and pupil views
  • Off-site and managed moves
  • Complaints

Salford