A Guide to pupil exclusions
The decision to exclude
The Headteacher (or the most senior teacher in their absence), is the only person who can take the decision to exclude a pupil from school.
When a pupil is excluded parents/carers must be notified immediately, ideally by telephone, followed up by a letter.
The school must explain:
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the reason(s) for the exclusion;
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the parents/carers right to make representation to the Governors Discipline Committee;
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the arrangements made for setting and marking work during the exclusion, and for full time provision if the exclusion is for more than 5 school days;
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the parents/carers right to see their child's school record.
There are two types of exclusion:
- Fixed period, which can range from half a day to a maximum of 45 school days in a school year. (A child can also be excluded for lunchtimes.)
- Permanent.
Length of exclusion
Exclusion for more than 5 school days
Exclusion for more than 15 school days
Permanent exclusion
Appeals
Even if the parents/carers did not attend the Governors Discipline Committee meeting, they have the right to appeal to an Independent Appeal Panel if the Governors Discipline Committee upheld the decision to exclude. If you wish to appeal, please state your reasons in writing to the Senior Democratic Services Officer, Democratic Services Team, County Hall, Newport, IW, PO30 1UD.
Where relevant, if you wish to have a SEN expert appointed for a review, the request must be made in writing to the Local Authority with, and at the same time as, the application for a review.
Information and Guidance for parents
The Children's Legal Centre has produced a useful information guide for parents regarding exclusions. This can be found on their website by clicking here.
The Department for Education (DfE) has detailed guidance on when and how pupil exclusions should be implemented and procedures for appeals against exclusion. This guidance can be found on their website by clicking here.