This article is based on the following guidance from the DfE, both of which came into effect on 1 September 2022:
- School suspensions and exclusions (read our summary to find out what's changed). This guidance applies to all pupils, including those above and below compulsory school age
- Behaviour in schools
Both guidance documents apply to maintained schools, academies (including free schools), alternative provision (AP) academies (including AP free schools), and pupil referral units.
Use the previous guidance for pupils suspended before 1st September 2022
The new guidance only applies to suspensions and exclusions which take place on or after this date. If you have ongoing cases, make sure you follow the policy that was in place when the suspension or exclusion process started. If you don't have an exclusions policy, contact the DfE to get a copy of the archived guidance.
A pupil can be suspended for 1 or more fixed periods, up