Introduction

For the vast majority of pupils, suspension and permanent exclusion may not be necessary, as early support can help manage a pupil’s behaviour. However, a suspension or permanent exclusion will sometimes be necessary as a last resort.

The Department for Education (DfE) does not provide a list of specific behaviours which mean a child can or cannot be suspended or permanently excluded.

A head teacher can issue a suspension or permanent exclusion in response to your child’s unacceptable behaviour that breaks the rules, in or outside of school.

The head teacher cannot suspend or permanently exclude your child for failing to pass exams or simply because they have additional needs or a disability the school feels it is unable to meet.

The guidance on this page will help you understand the school suspension and permanent exclusion process that all head teachers must follow and where you can receive support.

Suspensions and permanent exclusions at a glance:

• Suspensions are temporary, up to 45 days/year
• Permanent exclusions are final, but appealable
• Schools and Local Authorities must provide education during exclusion periods
• SEND/EHCP students benefit from additional protections and support
• Option to appeal through school governors and Independent Panels.

Suspension

A suspension, also called a fixed‑term or fixed‑period exclusion, means your child is kept out of school for a set time. This could be several days, part of a school day, or even just lunchtime.

Permanent exclusion

For serious breaking of the school rules, or persistent disruptive behaviour, your child may be permanently excluded which means they must leave their school on a permanent basis and receive their full-time education somewhere else. This is also called “expulsion.”

SEND and EHCP students – extra support

Schools must consider if your child’s SEND contributed to their behaviour. If it did, they need to make reasonable adjustments before penalising your child.

EHCP review

If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), the school should:

• talk with you early about behaviour concerns
• ask the council for an early annual review to update the plan.

SEND and inclusion

Governing boards must support children with SEND and not discriminate under the Equality Act 2010.

Alternative Provision

If your child can’t attend their usual school, due to exclusion, illness, EHCP-related issues, or other barriers, the council arranges tailored education such as off‑site support or specialist provision.

This covers:

• suspensions over 5 days
• permanent exclusions
• medical absence over 15 days.

Funding responsibility depends on whether your child is on roll at a mainstream school or not.

Further information

Guidance on GOV.UK explains the legal responsibilities of professionals involved in suspending and permanently excluding children from school, including:

• head teachers
• governing boards
• local authorities.

GOV.UK - guide for parents on school behaviour and exclusion

Get in touch

Education welfare service - for all families

SENDART - EHCP students

SENDIASS - SEND information and support