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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.

Updated
on 12 June 2026See 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. Cancelling suspensions and exclusions
  5. Notifying relevant parties of a suspension or exclusion
  6. 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.

The DfE has published updated guidance which 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. 

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. 

Suspensions can also just be for a part of the school