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Governors' suspensions and exclusions panels: procedures

As a governor, you'll most likely be asked to consider a suspension or exclusion at some point. Read about the procedures to follow when sitting on the governors' panel.

Updated
on 16 June 2026See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 5030
Contents
  1. Governors' role in suspensions and exclusions
  2. Set the date and time within the statutory limits
  3. Hold the panel virtually if parents/carers have requested it
  4. Send out the papers and evidence
  5. Know who must, and may, attend
  6. Deal with disruptions
  7. Make sure there are clear minutes
  8. Make a decision
  9. Notify parties about the decision
  10. Make sure the pupil's name is removed from the school register, where appropriate

Unless stated otherwise, the information in this article is taken from the Department for Education (DfE)'s statutory guidance on suspension and permanent exclusions.

The DfE has published updated guidance that comes into effect on 26 July 2026. It replaces the existing guidance on suspensions and exclusions. Your school should follow the existing guidance until 25 July 2026. See our summary of the changes.

Governors' role in suspensions and exclusions

As a governor, it’s very likely you’ll be asked to consider a suspension or exclusion at some point in your service.

If you're in an academy, you'll need to check whether your articles of association set out any requirements