Introduction

This page draws on national government guidance, legislation and local Somerset context to clarify the duties and expectations of schools with regard to children and young people who present with challenging behaviour and are at risk of exclusion from school. We would like to thank the Somerset school leaders, parents and wider groups for their support in producing this document.

This page aims to outline the steps that should be taken in response to a child or young person at risk of suspension and/or exclusion. It aims to strengthen the consistency of approach across settings and promote the use of effective strategies earlier so that exclusion risks are reduced and avoided wherever possible.

Exclusion must be a last resort and it must be lawful, reasonable, proportionate and fair. Before making the decision to exclude, the head teacher should have confidence that everything covered on this page has been fully considered.