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Suspensions and exclusions: summary

Understand the statutory framework surrounding suspensions and exclusions and what you might be asked to do as part of the process. Download our suspensions and exclusions process flowchart to get up to speed quickly.

Last reviewed on 10 July 2025See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 3467
Contents
  1. Only headteachers or acting headteachers can decide to suspend or exclude a pupil
  2. Suspensions and exclusions process: flowchart
  3. Reasons a suspension or exclusion may be unlawful
  4. Exclusions which require special consideration
  5. Cancelling suspensions and exclusions
  6. Notifying relevant parties of a suspension or exclusion
  7. The governing board's responsibilities

All maintained schools, academies, alternative provision academies, and pupil referral units (PRUs) must have regard to statutory guidance on suspension and exclusion from the Department for Education (DfE).

The requirements apply to all pupils, including those above and below compulsory school age.

Only headteachers or acting headteachers can decide to suspend or exclude a pupil

In all cases, the decision must be lawful, rational, reasonable, fair and proportionate. 

Suspensions

Suspensions are temporary. A pupil can be suspended for 1 or more fixed periods, up to a maximum of 45 days in total per school year. 

All suspensions, however short in duration, must be formally recorded. 

The headteacher cannot extend a suspension or convert a suspension into a permanent exclusion. However, they