Location: Fixed Period Exclusion From School » Fixed Period Exclusion From School

Fixed Period Exclusion From School

Exclusion from school is a formal step taken when the Headteacher considers it necessary for a child to stay away from school for disciplinary reasons. Only the Headteacher, by law can exclude your child. If the Headteacher is absent from school, the power rests with the Deputy Head or most senior teacher, and they should make it clear that they are acting in the Head's absence.

Role of the Education Welfare Officer (EWO)

We understand that this can be a stressful and worrying time. Your local EWO is ready to offer help and guidance - the address and telephone numbers can be found on our Contact Us page. Please do not hesitate to contact the EWO should you wish to take up any questions and concerns about the exclusion procedures.

The Purpose of a Fixed Period Exclusion

The purpose may be to allow:

A cooling off period
Time for thought and discussion
The school to function satisfactorily for the remainder of pupils
An opportunity for discussion between school staff and parents and to assess if there is a need for extra support from the Education Authority

Legal Limits to Fixed Term Exclusion

The law allows the Headteacher to exclude a pupil for up to 45 days in one school year.

Points to Consider

You should be informed of the exclusion immediately, followed by a letter within one school day.
Your letter will tell you the reason for the exclusion, how long the exclusion is for and your right to have your say to the Governing Body's Discipline Committee.
You may in addition require information about your child's record and provision of schoolwork. That will usually be provided if the exclusion is for more than 5 days.
All exclusions will be discussed by the Governing Body's Disciplinary Committee.
If the exclusion is for fewer than 6 days, the Discipline Committee cannot overturn the Headteacher's decision, but they should consider any statement you wish to make.
If the exclusion is for 6 days or more, or if it means your child could miss the opportunity to take a public examination, the Discipline Committee should consider the exclusion and decide if your child should be reinstated.
The school will inform you of the date and time of the meeting.
You may bring along a friend or legal representative.
The Discipline Committee will allow your child to attend the meeting.

Parents have a responsibility to keep the child at home and away from the school premises to avoid possible further misbehaviour, you also have a responsibility to work with the school to ensure the good behaviour of your child on their return to school after exclusion.