Suspensions & permanent exclusions: what changed on 26 July 2026

In short

The updated statutory guidance on suspension and permanent exclusion, a companion to 'Behaviour in schools', is effective from 26 July 2026. Permanent exclusion should only be used for a serious breach or persistent breaches of the behaviour policy, where allowing the pupil to remain would seriously harm their education or welfare, or that of others.

Who this affects: Headteachers, local authorities, governing bodies, academy trusts, independent review panel members, independent review panel clerks, special educational needs experts, social workers, and Virtual School Heads across maintained schools, academies, and pupil referral units.

Written by AI, not individually reviewed. Corrected by HeadteacherChat on 13 October 2026.

GOV.UK’s note

The updated guidance on 'Suspension and permanent exclusion from maintained schools, academies and pupil referral units in England, including pupil movement' is effective from 26 July 2026.