More than just a listening ear
Time critical advice and support on exclusions and suspensions when YOU need it
We are highly experienced professionals, providing support and guidance to academies and multi-academy trusts (MATs) on suspensions, permanent exclusions and Independent Review Panels (IRPs).
Why us?
We have seen an increase in the number of permanent exclusions, upheld by governors on review and then taken by parents to an Independent Review Panel (IRP). Parents have access to a range of support from external bodies with substantial experience of the IRP process, whereas the process may be unfamiliar to you as an academy principal or governor, leaving you feeling vulnerable. This is where we can help.
Our considerable experience of sitting on IRPs is that Principals and Governors sitting on disciplinary panels that review suspensions and exclusions are often ill-prepared for the rigour of the Panel because some have not received up-to-date training and those that have do not fully understand how to apply it.
This, together with a sharp focus on their duty under the Equality Act 2010 and SEND legislation makes exclusions a potential minefield where both academies and their governors are exposed to significant costs in both time and money and reputational damage.
Academy Exclusions Advice was set up with the following three core principles in mind:
Time
Advice exactly when you need it! Just pick up the telephone.
Money
Saving you money through cost-effective options.
Peace of Mind
Someone knowledgeable on your side.
How can we help?
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Our team will provide you with timely telephone advice and guidance to sense-check decisions and help navigate the legal framework around suspensions and exclusions. We will ensure that you understand your rights and responsibilities and guide you through the process step-by-step.
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We can assist you in developing comprehensive and effective suspension and exclusion policies that are compliant with legal requirements and best practices. Our aim is to help you to create a fair and transparent framework that promotes positive behaviour and fosters a supportive learning environment.
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We can provide advice and guidance to headteachers and chairs of Governors Disciplinary Committees facing an Independent Review Panel hearing. Our thorough analysis of the situation, combined with our knowledge of relevant legislation and case law, can provide invaluable insight and guidance throughout the appeal process.
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We will quickly review your paperwork before the clerk sends it out and, if needed, run through a checklist with you, as principal and the chair of the discipline committee prior to any suspension of permanent exclusion review.
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We offer bespoke training sessions to your academy leaders, governors and trustees ensuring they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle suspensions and exclusions effectively and confidently.
Our training covers a range of topics, including understanding legal obligations, conducting fair investigations, Headteacher and governors’ duties under the Equality Act 2010 and Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Code of Practice and the Human Rights Act 1998.
Membership fees
For a fee between £185 and £485 per term (3 terms per year), depending on the number of pupils within your academy, Academy Exclusions Advice will make sure that you have all the support you need to navigate the complex suspensions and exclusions landscape. Fees can be paid termly, or for a 10% discount, annually.
£185
0-299 pupils
£285
300-599 pupils
£385
600-999 pupils
£485
1000+ pupils
Membership includes:
Up to twelve 30-minute ‘when you need it’ telephone support calls
One 3-hour training session for governors and SLT members per year, either online or in-person
Two one hour telephone/online “quick” training sessions for new governors
Annual briefing for governors and headteachers on changes to statutory guidance
Quick review of paperwork prepared for governors disciplinary committees and checklist for principals and chairs of committee
IRP support (this does not include the cost of providing a panel and clerk)
If you are a multi-academy trust please get in touch to discuss fee structure.
Not a member? We can still help!
For Academies or multi-academy trusts who do not want to become a member, we offer one-off consultations and/or training for a negotiated fee. Please contact us to learn more.