Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, whether she is taking steps to ensure the appropriate use of discipline in schools for (a) children with special educational needs and disabilities and (b) other children; and what avenues of redress are open to parents if they have concerns about a school's use of discipline.

Schools need to manage behaviour well so they can provide calm, safe and supportive environments where all pupils and staff can work in safety and are respected.

The Behaviour in Schools guidance, 2022, is inclusive of all pupils. It includes a specific section on how pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) should be supported.

All schools are required by law to have a behaviour policy which outlines effective strategies that will encourage good behaviour and the sanctions that will be imposed for misbehaviour. The Department trusts head teachers to develop behaviour policies which reflect their school’s individual needs.

Any behaviour policy must be lawful, proportionate and reasonable and comply with the school’s duties under the Equality Act 2010 and the Education and Inspections Act 2006. Account must be taken of a pupil’s age, any SEND, and any religious requirements affecting them.

If parents have concerns about a school, they should speak to them in the first instance. If they are still unsatisfied following this, they can raise a formal complaint by following the school’s complaint procedure. If parents wish for the Department to consider the school’s actions, and the school is maintained by the Local Authority, they can contact the School Complaints Unit. They can contact them via email to: customer.enquiries@education.gov.uk or through the online portal at: https://www.education.gov.uk/contactus.