New Guidance on Physical Intervention in Schools Published in England
The UK Department for Education has published updated guidance on the use of physical restraint in schools, clarifying the circumstances under which teachers and school staff may physically intervene. Under the guidance, school staff are legally authorised to use “reasonable force” to prevent pupils from harming themselves or others, damaging property, causing serious disruption in schools, or committing a criminal offence.
The Department defines reasonable force as “physical intervention applied only to the extent necessary and for the shortest possible duration”. It emphasises that the level of force used may vary depending on the circumstances of each incident. The guidance also states that staff who may be required to use such interventions must receive appropriate training in safe and lawful methods, with responsibility for training decisions resting with school leaders.
The new guidance does not explicitly recommend the adoption of “no-contact” policies in schools. The Department warns that such policies may prevent staff from intervening when necessary and could result in pupils not being adequately protected. The guidance further notes that requests from parents or staff to impose a complete ban on the use of reasonable force should not be accepted.