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Reintegrating a pupil after a suspension: guidance

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.

Last reviewed on 31 January 2025See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 11928
Contents
  1. You should have a reintegration strategy for suspended pupils
  2. Start the reintegration process during the suspension period
  3. Work with external partners
  4. Create your reintegration strategy 
  5. Hold a reintegration meeting
  6. Hold frequent check-ins
  7. Only use reduced timetables in very exceptional circumstances 
  8. Remember to support other pupils and staff

You should have a reintegration strategy for suspended pupils

While it's not a statutory requirement, paragraph 27 of the DfE's guidance on suspensions and exclusions states that you should have a plan to help pupils return successfully to school life.

Use these strategies when a pupil:

  • Returns from:
    • A suspension period
    • Off-site direction
    • A significant period of internal exclusion/isolation
  • Is allowed to return to school when their permanent exclusion is overturned by your governing board 
  • Has their suspension cancelled

There are no set rules about how long this period should last or what it should look like. Instead, shape your reintegration plans around your school’s context and the individual pupil’s age, needs and behaviour.

Start the reintegration process during the suspension period

Elements of this support should flow naturally