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Policies & procedures

Exclusion for pupils with SEND

Considerations for panels reviewing pupil exclusion and suspension decisions.

Guidance
06/01/2025

Panels reviewing suspension and exclusion decisions must assess the relevance of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This means ensuring that:

  • the behaviour that resulted in the exclusion is not linked to a disability
  • the headteacher’s decision was proportionate
  • the school made reasonable adjustments

While these are some of the most difficult decisions that governors and trustees make, our guidance has been developed to ensure you’re acting within the law.

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