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Can my child appeal their suspension?

2 July 2020
clcadmin
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There is no right of appeal for either you or your child against a school’s decision to suspend them. However, if the Principal and Board of Governors have failed to follow the school’s policy and procedures relating to suspension, or the decision to suspend is unreasonable or unlawful, then it is possible to challenge the decision by way of a judicial review in the High Court.

If a challenge is successful then the Board of Governors of the school may be directed to remove the suspension from a pupil’s school records.

If you think you have been suspended unfairly then you should contact the Children’s Law Centre on 08088085678 or email: info@childrenslawcentre.org for advice.

Will my child still have to do school while suspended?

2 July 2020
clcadmin
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Your child’s school must provide them with suitable education while they are suspended. They may arrange for the collection of notes or homework at the school office and your child would have to complete this work in their own time. If a child is out of school for a long time then home tuition may be provided through the Education Authority.

Will the school tell me that my child has been suspended?

2 July 2020
clcadmin
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When a child is suspended, the Principal must write to their parents/carers immediately. They must also write to the Education Authority and the Chairperson of the Board of Governors, or if it is a Catholic Council Maintained School (CCMS), the local diocesan office, and give reasons for their suspension.

The Principal should also invite the parents/carers to the school to discuss the suspension.

If the Principal decides to extend a child’s suspension they must again write to the parents/carers.

What is the maximum amount of days my child can be suspended for?

2 July 2020
clcadmin
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A child cannot be suspended from school for any more than 45 days in one school year.

How long can a suspension last?

2 July 2020
clcadmin
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If a child has been suspended for the first time then this suspension can last no more than 5 school days. After this, the Principal can suspend them for a longer period by getting the approval of the Board of Governors. If the Principal decides to extend a suspension they must again write to the parents/carers of the child.