Exclusion of Children with SEND
When a child has been excluded from school it is a formal process whereby the child is no longer allowed in school. The reason children are excluded is usually for disciplinary reasons and exclusion can be temporary or permanent. Government guidance from September 2022 refers to fixed term or temporary exclusions as suspensions, but you may see both terms used.
How does this suspension or exclusion affect a child with SEND?
Before a child with special education needs or disabilities is suspended or excluded, the school must follow certain procedures. For example, alternative disciplinary measures could be implemented, or their SEN support could be improved or increased.
Local authorities also have a legal duty to arrange suitable alternative education for a child who has been excluded. To find out more information on your child’s rights, the policies schools must follow, and how to challenge decisions visit Contact’s website.
