Exclusions & Independent Review Panel Training

Practical training for governors, clerks, school leaders and panellists.

Next course:
Friday 17 April 2026
09:00 am – 12:30 pm
Online via Zoom

£125 + VAT per attendee

Permanent exclusions and requests for Independent Review Panels are increasing nationally. For schools and governing bodies, this brings added pressure, scrutiny and risk.

Exclusions are one of the most demanding statutory responsibilities placed on governors. Decisions must be lawful, procedurally sound and fair, often in emotionally charged circumstances and under tight timescales.

This training is designed to support governors, clerks and senior leaders to approach exclusions and Independent Review Panels with confidence, clarity and a clear understanding of their role within the process.

Who this session is for

This session is suitable for:

  • Governors and Trustees serving on Governor Disciplinary Committees

  • Clerks supporting the exclusion process

  • Governors, Headteachers or professionals wishing to sit on Independent Review Panels

  • SEND experts supporting panels

  • Headteachers and senior leaders involved in preparing paperwork or presenting at Hearings.

What the session covers

This practical, half-day session will cover:

  • Current statutory guidance
    An overview of the Department for Education requirements and expectations.

  • Roles and responsibilities
    Clarity on the distinct roles of Headteachers, governors, clerks, panel members, SEND experts and the Local Authority.

  • The exclusion and review process
    From the Headteacher’s decision through to the Governor Disciplinary Committee and the Independent Review Panel.

  • Equality Act duties
    Governor responsibilities, with a particular focus on pupils with SEND and EHCPs.

  • Preparing for Hearings
    Including remote hearings, required attendees and the role of the clerk.

  • How hearings work in practice
    The role of the Chair, questioning, managing discussion and evaluating evidence.

  • Decision-making
    Reaching lawful, reasoned decisions, including reconsideration and discrimination claims.

  • Case study discussion
    Applying learning to a realistic scenario.

Course facilitator

Sam Elms

Sam has over 20 years’ experience working across school governance, including as a CEO, Trustee, local governor, Clerk and Head of Governance. Sam has extensive experience supporting schools, Trusts and Governing bodies in high-stakes governance processes and has sat on Independent Review Panels for many years.

Make Lawful, Confident Decisions When It Matters Most

Join this focused half-day training and leave with clarity, confidence, and a clear understanding of your statutory responsibilities.
Book Your Place Today