Suspensions and Exclusions Policy
At Gymlab, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and positive environment for all children, staff, and families. While we aim to nurture every child and help them thrive, there may be situations where a child’s behaviour consistently poses a risk to themselves, others, or property. In such cases, suspension or exclusion may be considered as a last resort.
This policy outlines the circumstances under which suspensions and exclusions may occur, the procedures involved, and the rights of the child and their family.
This policy aims to:
• Promote a safe and positive environment for all.
• Provide clear guidelines for managing behaviour that may lead to suspension or exclusion.
• Ensure a fair and consistent process for all involved.
• Support children and families in understanding and addressing challenging behaviours.
A child may be considered for suspension or exclusion if they:
• Consistently engage in behaviour that poses a significant risk to themselves or others.
• Cause intentional and repeated damage to property.
• Disrupt the learning or enjoyment of others despite repeated intervention.
• Display behaviour that compromises the health, safety, or well-being of staff, children, or parents.
Examples of such behaviours include, but are not limited to:
• Aggression toward other children or staff.
• Persistent defiance or refusal to follow safety instructions.
• Actions that cause or threaten harm to others or property.
We believe in a proactive approach to managing challenging behaviours. The following steps will be taken before considering suspension or exclusion:
1. Observation and Documentation:
• The child’s behaviour will be observed and documented to identify triggers, patterns, and potential solutions.
2. Parent/Guardian Consultation:
• Parents or guardians will be informed of the behaviour concerns at the earliest opportunity.
• A meeting will be arranged to discuss strategies to support the child.
3. Behaviour Management Plan:
• A tailored plan will be created and implemented, including positive reinforcement, redirection, and clear boundaries.
• Parents will be involved in the creation and application of this plan.
4. Additional Support:
• Where appropriate, external professionals (e.g., behavioural specialists or counsellors) may be consulted to support the child.
If the above measures fail to address the behaviour and the risks remain, the club may proceed with a suspension or exclusion.
Suspension
• Duration: A suspension is a temporary exclusion from the club, lasting no more than one week unless otherwise specified.
• Notification: Parents will be notified in writing or by phone with the reasons for suspension and the duration.
• Reintegration Plan: A meeting with parents will be held to discuss strategies for a smooth return, ensuring the child is supported to succeed.
Exclusion
• Permanent Exclusion: If the behaviour persists or escalates after all reasonable steps have been taken, the club may decide on permanent exclusion.
• Notification: Parents will be notified in writing with a clear explanation of the reasons for exclusion.
• Support: The club will provide advice or signposting to alternative services if necessary.
Communication
• All decisions regarding suspension or exclusion will be communicated respectfully and in a timely manner.
• The reasons and processes involved will be explained to the child wherever appropriate and in line with the parent’s wishes.
• Parents have the right to discuss and appeal any decisions, and the club will endeavour to address concerns transparently and fairly.
Appeals Process
If a parent disagrees with a suspension or exclusion decision, they may:
1. Submit a written appeal to the Club Manager within 5 working days of notification.
2. The appeal will be reviewed by the Club Manager and/or Senior Management, and a decision will be communicated within 7 working days.