To access this information in a different language visit the Translated documents webpage.

What is expulsion?

Principals can expel students for two reasons:

• students who show serious behaviours of concern and when plans to manage their behaviour have not worked.

• students who are over 17 years old who have not taken part in learning and their behaviour affects the learning of other students.

Principals will think about how the school has supported your child’s learning, taking into account their needs and background before they decide to expel.

Before an expulsion occurs, the principal will contact you to let you know they are thinking of expelling your child. They will issue a written notice of potential expulsion and invite you and your child to a meeting to give the reasons and talk about what will happen if they expel your child. You can bring a support person with you to the meeting. A support person may be someone who can provide you and/or your child with emotional or practical support. The principal will share all relevant documents with you.

After the meeting you will have seven school days to provide a response to the school with reasons why your child should not be expelled. The principal will use this response as part of the decision-making process.

What happens if my child is expelled?

The principal and Director, Education Leadership will decide together if a student is to be expelled. Within 24 hours of deciding to expel a student, the principal must tell the student and their parents or carers and notify the NSW Department of Education.

If your child is under 17 years old and expelled because of their behaviour, the principal must find a new school or alternative setting to continue learning within 15 school days.

If your child is over 17 years old, you and your child should look for options to continue learning or transition to work.

Can I appeal an expulsion?

Yes, if you believe that the principal and Director, Educational Leadership made an unfair decision or didn’t follow the correct procedures. Refer to Appeals resource.

More information on advocating for your child is available, as well as our School Community Charter that outlines ways to communicate with schools.

How do I make a complaint?

If you have concerns about the expulsion, decisions made or support provided please refer to the website for more information on making a complaint.

Telephone interpreter service

If you wish to contact the school and need assistance with English please call the telephone interpreter service on 131 450, tell them what language you need and ask the operator to phone the school. The operator will get an interpreter on the line to assist you with your conversation. You will not be charged for this service.