This policy is informed by the Department of Education Northern Ireland’s guidance on the use of reasonable force (Regional Policy Framework 2004), the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 Article 4, and relevant updates as of 2025. It aligns with the Human Rights Act 1998 and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
Reasonable force refers to the minimum force necessary to prevent a pupil from doing, or continuing to do, any of the following:
- Committing a criminal offence
- Causing personal injury or damage to property
- Engaging in behaviour prejudicial to the maintenance of good order and discipline.
Reasonable force should only be used as a measure of last resort.
Reasonable force may be used to:
- Remove a disruptive pupil from a classroom
- Prevent a pupil from attacking another person
- Prevent self-harm
- Prevent damage to property
- Maintain order during school activities, including trips
Permitted forms of force include:
- Physically interposing between pupils
- Blocking a pupil’s path
- Leading a pupil by the arm
- Shepherding a pupil away by placing a hand in the centre of the back
Force must never be used as a punishment or to cause pain or humiliation.
All teaching staff and authorised non-teaching staff may use reasonable force when necessary. Staff must act within the law and school policy, ensuring any intervention is proportionate and necessary.
Staff will receive regular training in de-escalation techniques and safe handling practices. Training will be updated in line with Department of Education guidance.
All incidents involving the use of force must be reported to the Principal and recorded in the school’s Incident Log. Records should include:
- Date and time of incident
- Names of those involved
- Nature of the incident
- Action taken and outcome
Parents/guardians will be informed of any incident involving the use of reasonable force on their child as soon as possible. Meetings may be arranged to discuss the incident and any follow-up actions.
There may be minor variations to this policy where in the Principal’s judgement it is in the best interests of the school.
Evaluation- This policy will be reviewed as part of the school’s three-year review cycle.
RECORD OF POLICY AMENDMENTS
The following table outlines any significant changes/amendments made to this procedure since it was ratified by the Board of Governors on:
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