Bury Council promotes an inclusive education for all children and young people in Bury schools, colleges and academies. In doing so, the Council will ensure all educational settings are inclusive in the way they provide high quality educational experiences and services in partnership with other schools, service providers, business, community and third sector partners so that all children and young people can thrive as a fully participating member of the Bury community.
Exclusion from a school will be the last resort after a range of measures have been applied through working proactively with school governors and leaders to positively engage a child or young person to remain in education within a Bury school.
Types of exclusions
- Suspensions
(give reasons for suspension, why they are given)- A pupil may be excluded for any period up to 45 days in any school year. A date is given for the pupil's return to the same school.
- Permanent exclusions
(give reasons for PEX, why they are issued)- It is not intended that the pupil will return to the same school.
How am I told that my child has been excluded?
The school must tell you about the exclusion as soon as possible. You will receive a letter from the headteacher telling you:
- the reasons for the exclusion and whether the exclusion is a suspension or permanent;
- the arrangements for continuing your child's education. During the first five days of any exclusion you are responsible for your child's education. If the exclusion is six days or longer and a suspension, then the school needs to make arrangements to provide education (normally off site) from day six onwards. If the exclusion is permanent then the Local Authority will arrange education from day six. This does not affect your right of appeal against exclusion;
- that you have the right to appeal to the governing body's discipline committee;
- who to contact if you wish to appeal and the latest date for doing so;
- if the exclusion is a suspension, the date of return to school;
- that you have the right to see your child's school record, including attendance and academic performance data.
Parental responsibilities during exclusions
During the first five days of any period of exclusion the parent is regarded as responsible for their child's education. The parent or carer must ensure that their child is not found in a public place in school hours during this first five days, or a penalty notice may be issued by the Local Authority.
Can I appeal against the exclusion?
Yes, you have the right to 'state a case' to the Governing Body's Discipline Committee. You and your child have a right to attend the meeting and may be accompanied by a friend or legal representative. You may also make your statement to the committee in writing.
Where can I get some advice?
You can contact the Bury Local Authority Education Welfare Service: schoolattendanceteam@bury.gov.uk.