School Exclusions

If your child has been suspended or permanently excluded from school, it can be distressing, confusing, and disruptive. Not knowing how to respond can feel overwhelming, especially when your priority is ensuring your child returns to education as quickly as possible.

Please note: we are only able to take on privately funded cases. If you are unable to fund your case privately or if you are looking for general guidance on what actions you can take to protect your or your child’s education rights , you may refer to the Citizens Advice website.

Our Expertise in School Exclusions

We have extensive experience of advising on school suspensions and exclusions. Our team regularly handles cases from the initial advice stage through to appeals before governing bodies.

How We Can Help

Our specialist education solicitors can assist with:

• Fixed-term exclusions (suspensions)
• Permanent exclusions
• Exclusions involving Special Educational Needs (SEN)
• Appeals to school governing bodies.

We offer a fixed-fee initial consultation where one of our specialist education lawyers reviews your situation, considers your documents, and advises on the best strategy for challenging the exclusion.

Appealing a School Exclusion

You may have the right to appeal against a school exclusion, depending on the circumstances. Acting quickly is essential—the longer your child is excluded, the greater the risk of long-term impact on their education.

Our solicitors are highly experienced in guiding families through exclusion appeals. We will help you:

• Understand the process and your rights
• Prepare a case with supporting evidence
• Develop a clear strategy for meetings with governors or review panels

Independent Review Panels

If a permanent exclusion is upheld by the governing board, you can request an Independent Review Panel. While the Panel cannot reinstate a pupil, it can recommend that the governing board reconsider its decision.

Strict time limits apply, so seek advice as early as possible. We can help build your case, identify key documents, and make sure you are prepared for the hearing.

FAQ - School Exclusions

What is a School Suspension?

A suspension is a fixed-term exclusion, meaning the child cannot attend school for a set period (up to 45 days in an academic year).

What is a Permanent Exclusion?

A permanent exclusion means the child will not return to that school and must continue their education elsewhere. This should only occur after persistent breaches or a serious single breach of the school’s behaviour policy.

Can You Appeal a School Exclusion?

Yes. Most schools must follow Department for Education guidance, ensuring decisions are lawful, fair, reasonable, and proportionate. Schools must provide written reasons for exclusions and inform parents of their right to make representations and attend appeal meetings.