Suspensions and exclusions: resolving difficulties with parents/carers

Get advice on what to do if parents or carers behave in an unacceptable way during the suspension or exclusion process. Plus, find out what your school can do if parents/carers can't be reached when a pupil is suspended.

Last reviewed on 22 September 2025See updates
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 34186
Contents
  1. If your school can't get in touch with parents/carers
  2. If parents/carers behave unacceptably during a hearing

If your school can't get in touch with parents/carers

Schools must notify the suspended or excluded pupil's parents/carers 'without delay', telling them how long the suspension or exclusion is for, and the reason(s) for it (see paragraph 63 of the statutory suspensions and permanent exclusions guidance).

Schools should notify parents/carers in person or by phone in the first instance, as this will allow the parents/carers to ask questions or raise concerns (paragraph 73 of the guidance, linked above). Your school should maintain correct and up-to-date phone numbers for parents/carers, so the headteacher can do this. 

Your school must also give the parents/carers certain information in writing, without delay. Direct your headteacher to our template letter, which covers the information they're required and advised to use. Our templates are also available as part of our on-demand suspensions and exclusions training course

Remember, your school is still responsible