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Suspending a pupil: procedures and guidance

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

Last reviewed on 4 February 2025See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 45206
Contents
  1. What is a suspension? 
  2. Informal or 'unofficial' suspensions are unlawful
  3. What the headteacher must consider before suspending a pupil
  4. Pupils who require special consideration
  5. How to report and record suspensions
  6. Arranging provision for suspended pupils
  7. Headteachers can cancel suspensions 
  8. Governors have a responsibility to consider suspensions
  9. Reintegrating a pupil after suspension

This article is based on the following guidance from the DfE:

Both guidance documents apply to maintained schools, academies (including free schools), alternative provision (AP) academies (including AP free schools), and pupil referral units (PRUs).

What is a suspension? 

A pupil can be suspended for 1 or more fixed periods, up to a maximum of 45 school days in a school year. It doesn't have to be for a continuous period. 

'Internal suspensions', where a pupil is sent to work in an isolation unit for disciplinary reasons, are not covered under the statutory suspensions and exclusions