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<p>In 2009/10 there were 370 permanent exclusions categorised with the main reason
being recorded as ‘drug and alcohol related’, compared to 565 in 2016/17.</p><p>There
were 8,765 fixed period exclusions in 2009/10 with the main reason of “drug and alcohol
related”, compared to 9,075 in 2016/17.</p><p>Schools have a statutory power to search
for and confiscate prohibited items such as alcohol, and illegal drugs. Where they
find other substances, which are not controlled drugs but a teacher believes them
to be harmful or detrimental to good order and discipline, these can also be confiscated.</p><p>The
department has produced the attached advice for schools which makes it clear that
school staff can search pupils or their possessions, without consent where there are
reasonable grounds to do so. If a pupil refuses to be searched, the school may bar
them from the premises.</p><p>Ultimately, we support head teachers in using exclusion
where this is warranted. It is equally important that the obligations on schools are
clear and well understood, to ensure that any exclusion is lawful, reasonable and
fair.</p><p>The process that head teachers must follow is set out in statutory guidance,
which is attached.</p><p>In March 2018, the government launched an externally led
review of exclusions practice, led by Edward Timpson CBE. The review is exploring
how head teachers use exclusion, and why pupils with particular characteristics are
more likely to be excluded from school. It is also considering the differences in
exclusion rates across primary and secondary schools in England.</p><p>The review
will report in early 2019. The full terms of reference for the review can be found
attached.</p>
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