This article is based on the DfE’s statutory guidance on suspensions and permanent exclusions, in force from 1 September 2023. It's for maintained schools, academies, alternative provision academies and pupil referral units (PRUs), and also applies to pupils above or below compulsory school age, such as those attending nursery classes or sixth forms.
Please note: where we talk about parents/carers in this article, we're referring to situations where the pupil is under 18. If they're 18 or over, you'll be communicating directly with them, so you'll need to adapt your approach and the templates below in line with the guidance.
Notify these people 'without delay'
Parents/carers Your LA (and the pupil's home LA if they're permanently excluded) The pupil's social worker or virtual school head (VSH), if they have one Your governing board, if it's a: Permanent exclusion Suspension that will result in the