Suspensions and exclusions

Be clear on the procedures for excluding a pupil from your school, when you can lawfully do so, and who you must inform.

Support pupils to improve their behaviour and prevent permanent exclusion. Understand what off-site directions and managed moves are, and when and how to use these interventions effectively.

Parents/carers have the right to request a review of your governing board's decision not to reinstate a pupil after exclusion. This is done by an independent review panel (IRP), convened by the local authority (LA) or academy trust. Get an overview of how the hearing will run and what the outcomes might be.

Ofsted will look for evidence of 'off-rolling'. Find out what it is, how you can guard against it and what to do if you think it has happened.

Read about creating an integration strategy to help support pupils on a fresh start following suspension. Find out what to cover in a reintegration meeting, and download our template strategy plan to get your staff, pupils and parents/carers on the same page.

Be clear on the procedures for separating a pupil for safeguarding purposes. Understand when you can use it and how it differs from disciplinary measures such as suspensions and exclusions.

Be clear on the procedures for suspending a pupil from your school, when you can lawfully do so, and who you must inform.

Understand the steps you need to take before suspending or excluding a pupil with SEND, especially if they have an education, health and care (EHC) plan, and learn about how your statutory duties may affect your decision.

Get up to speed with key changes to the statutory suspension and permanent exclusion guidance, in effect from 26 July 2026, including a new safeguarding protocol and updated expectations for managed moves.

Certain exclusions require a panel to consider the headteacher's decision. Get an overview of the requirements and what role you play in the process, and download our template report to the board to help you present your case.

Following a permanent exclusion or suspension, understand who you need to tell and when. Download our template letters to get the necessary information to the required people without delay.