Exclusion from an activity

Being sent off site for behaviour support, and the rules that apply.

What it is

A school may direct a pupil off site to another school or provision to improve behaviour, without excluding them. The pupil stays on the school's roll.

Where it applies

Maintained schools have a statutory power to do this; academies operate under their funding agreements.

How it works

Parents must be given notice in writing including where, when and why. The arrangement must be reviewed at set intervals with the parents involved, and it must have clear objectives.

It is not an exclusion and does not carry exclusion rights — which is exactly why the safeguards around notice and review matter.

What you can ask for

Ask for the direction in writing with the objectives, the review dates and the intended end point.

Ask what the plan is for return, and what has to change.

Ask whether this is being used instead of a suspension. If so, you are losing the right to make representations to governors, and it is fair to say so.

Where to get help

Child Law Advice and IPSEA. SENDIASS for free local advice, and IPSEA or Contact nationally. where there is an EHCP.