What do I do when…
I’m asked to collect my child or keep them at home
The phone call asking you to come and pick them up. If it’s happening again and again, it matters how it’s recorded.
Your rights
- If your child is sent home because of behaviour, it must be a formal suspension, given to you in writing with the reason and how long it lasts.
- Sending a child home any other way is an unofficial exclusion. This is unlawful, even if you agree to it.
- School can send your child home if they are genuinely unwell.
- If your child is suspended, you have the right to put your views to the school’s governors. If they have an EHCP, frequent suspensions are a reason to ask for an early review.
What to do
- Keep a note of every time: the date, the time, who called and the reason they gave.
- On the day, ask: “Is this a formal suspension? Please confirm it in writing.”
- Afterwards, email school asking for each occasion to be recorded properly.
- Ask for a meeting about the support that will stop it happening again.
- Get advice from SENDIASS.
How Aro helps
Log a collection in seconds in Aro, then let it draft the email asking school to record each one properly.
Who can help
- HertfordshireExclusions and suspensions advice lineAdvice for parents about exclusions, suspensions and being sent home.01992 555911 · statutoryschoolexclusionduty@hertfordshire.gov.uk
- HertfordshireHerts SENDIASSFree, impartial advice on SEND, EHCPs and disagreements with school or the council.01992 555 847 · info@hertssendiass.org.uk
- NationalIPSEAFree, independent legal advice on SEND law, EHCPs and tribunal appeals, with model letters.
- NationalContactNational charity for families with disabled children. Advice on benefits, education and more.0808 808 3555
Official guidance
This guide is general information about the law in England, written by a parent. It isn’t legal advice, and every situation is different. For advice about your child, contact SENDIASS or IPSEA. Last checked October 2026.