Pupils with particular needs or disabilities
Pupils with disabilities can be suspended but there must not have been discrimination. If you believe that your child has been discriminated against because of their disability, and that this has been a significant factor in their decision, you can raise your concerns with the governors (Pupil Discipline Committee).
If you feel that the suspension was a result of unmet special educational needs (SEN), on return to school you can make a request for:
- more or different support
- assessment by an educational psychologist
- an early or interim review if your child has an EHC Plan
- reasonable adjustments' if your child is disabled
If your child is already receiving SEN support at school for their additional needs, a meeting with school can be arranged to discuss if further intervention is needed, such as specialist advice or to request an education, health and care (EHC) plan.
If your child has an education, health and care (EHC) plan and is receiving suspensions, a review of the EHC plan should be arranged as soon as possible to consider if the agreed support is being provided and is still meeting the child's needs. You could discuss this with school and ask them to request a review, or you can contact your local Inclusion Service area team and ask for a review to be arranged.
Make sure that the school's special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCO) is involved in any meetings.
You can also contact your local Inclusion Service area team or the St Helens Information Advice and Support (IAS) Team for advice.
If you are the carer of a looked after child, you must discuss matters with your social worker, who may wish to attend any relevant meetings. Looked after children should only be suspended as an absolute last resort.
In exceptional circumstances, the headteacher may decide to cancel the suspension prior to a formal meeting being held.
Share this page
