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<p>Pupils leave school rolls for many reasons including: permanent exclusion, moving
to another school, or changes of circumstances (such as when a pupil moves to a new
area). All schools must notify the local authority when a pupil’s name is to be deleted
from the admission register. There is no legal definition of ‘off-rolling’. However,
the law is clear that a pupil’s name can only be deleted from the admission register
on the grounds prescribed in regulation 8 of the Education (Pupil Registration) (England)
Regulations 2006, as amended.</p><p> </p><p>Statutory guidance on exclusions is also
clear that ‘informal’ or ‘unofficial’ exclusions are unlawful, regardless of whether
they occur with the agreement of parents or carers. Any exclusion of a pupil, even
for short periods of time, must be formally recorded.</p><p> </p><p>Following media
coverage of inappropriate off-rolling last summer, the department wrote to all secondary
schools, reminding them of the rules surrounding exclusion.</p><p> </p><p>Ofsted has
recently consulted on proposals that will see inspectors paying particular attention
to signs of off-rolling, and if it is found, reflecting this in the school’s inspection
judgement. Ofsted will publish the outcome of its consultation in due course.</p><p>
</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> </p><p>The Timpson review and the government’s
response were published on 7 May. The review makes 30 recommendations and highlights
variation in exclusions practice across different schools, local authorities and certain
groups of children. The government agrees with all 30 recommendation in principle
and will be taking forward an ambitious response which respects headteachers’ powers
to use exclusion, while equipping schools to support children at risk of exclusion.</p><p>
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