Headteachers can exclude a child for one or more incidents of serious misbehaviour.
Types of exclusion
There are two types of exclusion:
- Fixed-term (sometimes referred to as a suspension) - this is for a specific number of days. A maximum 45 days in any one school year. The pupil cannot go back to school until a certain date.
- Permanent exclusion (sometimes referred to as expelled) - the school has come to the view that the pupil should not continue at the school
Most exclusions are fixed-term. Sometimes a fixed-term exclusion may lead to a permanent exclusion.
- View the DfE guidance on exclusion from maintained schools, academies and pupil referral units in England.
- View the Brent Reduced timetable guidance
- View the Brent exclusion protocol
Support before and after exclusion
Our Inclusion Support Service works closely with schools and parents to identify children who may be at risk of exclusion, and try to prevent this from happening.
If a child is permanently excluded, the team will offer advice and support to parents, helping them through the rights of appeal and looking for school vacancies.
The team will work with schools to find new places for permanently excluded pupils and help make the return to school as easy as possible.
We will also work in co-ordination with the Brent Pupil Referral Unit or Alternative Providers to arrange education for excluded pupils.
Schools can contact the Inclusion Support Service by emailing: pupil.referrals@brent.gov.uk
Referrals
Schools can make a referral requesting support for an individual, small group or the whole school.
Other concerned professionals can make referrals, but this should be done with the involvement of the pupil’s school, to ensure information provided is accurate and up to date.
Schools can download an exclusions referral form