Schools should refer to the statutory guidance below when considering a suspension or permanent exclusion. This guidance is available to download as a PDF at the bottom of this page.
The guidance provides a guide to the legislation that governs the suspension and permanent exclusion of pupils from all maintained schools (including special schools), pupil referral units (PRUs), academy schools (including free schools, special schools, studio schools and university technology colleges) and alternative provision academies (including alternative provision free schools) in England.
There are certain groups of pupils with additional needs who are particularly vulnerable to exclusion. This includes pupils with EHCPs.
Head teachers should, as far as possible, avoid permanently excluding any pupil with an EHCP or a ‘looked after’ child. Schools should proactively engage with parents to support the behaviour of pupils with additional needs. In relation to ‘looked after’ children, schools should co-operate proactively with foster carers or children’s home workers and the Local Authority that looks after the child.
Where a school has concerns about behaviour, or risk of exclusion, of a child in one of these vulnerable groups, it should, in partnership with others (including the Local Authority as necessary), consider what additional support or alternative placement may be required. This should involve assessing the suitability of support for a pupil’s SEN. Where a pupil has an EHCP, schools should consider requesting an early annual review or interim / emergency review.
Information about Alternative Provision for those at risk of or who have been permanently excluded can be found on the Local Offer Alternative Provision page.
If a child with an EHCP is at risk of permanent exclusion, then discussions should be had with the EP service and with SEMH outreach.
Statutory information about school exclusions can be found on this gov.uk page. (opens link in new window)
Latest exclusions information - all these links open as Word Documents in a new page.
Permanent Exclusion Notification Form SEPT 2025
Exclusions flow chart for Governors (The Key)
Model Permanent Exclusion letter (2025)
Model Suspension Letter
Role of the Governors' Decision Committee
Invite to the Governor's Decision Committee
Model letter (Governors Decision Committee decision not to reinstate)
