Permanent exclusion from school is a very serious matter. Only a school’s head teacher - or named deputy if the head teacher is out of school - can permanently exclude a pupil. Head teachers may decide to permanently exclude a pupil only when they are sure that:

• The pupil has seriously breached the school’s discipline policy
• If the pupil remains in school, it would seriously harm the education or welfare of the pupil or others in the school.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'permanent exclusion' mean?
The head teacher has decided that as a result of your child’s behaviour in accordance with the governing bodies’ behavioural policy he/she can no longer attend the school

What is the discipline committee?
The discipline committee is formed from three or five school governors. Its role is to examine the head teacher’s decisions to exclude pupils and decide whether those decisions were correct. There will also be a clerk present to take notes and advise on procedures.

If the discipline committee decides to overturn the exclusion, will my child return to the same school?
Yes.

Can I take anyone with me to the discipline committee meeting?
You can take a friend or supporter to the meeting. However, you must inform the head teacher that a friend/supporter will be accompanying you.

If the discipline committee upholds the exclusion, what happens to my child’s education?
Nottinghamshire Learning Centre will continue to provide education for your child until another placement has been arranged. The Local Education Officer and your Connexions Personal Advisor will support you through this process.

What happens to my child’s education before the Discipline Committee meeting?
For days 1-5 inclusive, the school will set work to be done at home. During this time you have a duty to ensure that your child is not present in a public place during school hours. You are liable to a fine if your child is found in a public place, with or without a parent, without good reason.

From day 6 the local authority (LA) will provide between 21 and 25 hours of education (depending on the age of your child) through the Nottinghamshire Learning Centre.

What happens if my child has to travel further than previously to their new school?
If it is the school designated by the local authority and the distance is greater than the permitted walking distance for your child’s age, the local authority will pay for transport, usually a bus pass. If the school is your preferred school, you may be responsible for getting your child to and from the school.

Can I be issued with a penalty notice if my child is seen in a public place with me during the first 5 days of the exclusion?
Yes. You must ensure that your child is not present in a public place during school hours without reasonable justification. This applies whether or not the child is with you.

What happens once I have nominated a school?
If your child is of secondary school age then the application for another school place will be discussed at the area admissions panel (AAP). The panel will discuss your child’s individual needs and also take into consideration your application.

If your child is of primary school age then your application will be considered by the Local Education Officer/ nominated school.

Is the exclusion process the same in other areas of the country?
Yes. Government guidance has been circulated to all schools and local authorities to ensure that all schools and support centres follow the same rules.

Can my child be permanently excluded for a serious first incident?
If the head teacher feels that they must protect staff/ other pupils in the school it may be necessary to permanently exclude following an investigation into the incident.

Can the head teacher permanently exclude my child if they have a statement?
Schools will only permanently exclude a pupil with a statement in exceptional circumstances. The school should have tried every practicable means to maintain the child in school, including seeking local authority and other professional advice.

What is Nottinghamshire Learning Centre?
There are four centres across Nottinghamshire that aim to provide short term education for permanently excluded pupils and help with reintegration back into school.

More details are outlined in the document 'Improving Behaviour and Attendance: Guidance on Exclusion from Schools and Pupil Referral Units September 2007' and the teachernet website.