FAQs

If the exclusion is upheld how do I find another school?

The local authority officer will discuss this with you and will identify a new school. You can express a preference for a particular school but a place there cannot be guaranteed. The local authority operates a "fair access" system of allocating school places to permanently excluded pupils. 

What happens if my child has to travel a distance to the new school?

If it is the school allocated by the local authority and the distance makes it appropriate, you may be eligible for transport, usually a bus pass. If the school is one you chose outside the local authority's fair share arrangements, you will be responsible for getting your child to and from the school.  Please see school transport pages for the relevant application forms

How long will it take to get my child a new school?

The local authority will try to do this as quickly as possible. Generally it takes about 4 to 8 weeks, but that will depend on when the governors' committee and any IAP can meet.  It will also depend on circumstances and Foundry College assessment.

Is there someone at the local authority I can talk to about the exclusion?

You are welcome to discuss it with an Education Welfare Officer or if your child has an EHCP – a SEN officer. The letter from the school should include all relevant contact details.

Is there anyone else who might give me advice?

If your child has special educational needs, you may wish to seek assistance from SENDIASS by contacting them. You could also contact ACE (Advisory Centre for Education) exclusions helpline  or The Children’s Legal Centre.

My child has special educational needs (SEN), does that make a difference to how the school deals with excluding them?

Exclusions should be the last resort for a pupil with SEN. If the child has an EHCP or statement of SEN, an emergency annual review should be held if the school is concerned about the pupil’s future at the school before considering a permanent exclusion. Under the disability discrimination act (DDA) disabled children should not be excluded for reasons connected to their disability. For example, a pupil with tourette's syndrome should not be excluded for swearing.

Can I get help in managing my child's behaviour?

If you feel that the relationship between you and your child is breaking down, and that you are losing control over him or her, the early help hub can give you support with your parenting and some fresh ideas for dealing with challenging behaviour. You can ask a GP, health visitor, school or social services to refer you to a family support worker from the early help hub.