Use of reasonable force in schools
Guidance about the use of physical restraint in schools for governing bodies, headteachers and school staff.
Applies to England
Documents
Details
Schools should continue to follow ‘Use of reasonable force in schools’, which remains effective until 31 March 2026.
‘Restrictive interventions, including the use of reasonable force, in schools’ comes into effect on 1 April 2026.
This guidance is for school leaders and school staff.
It applies to:
- local-authority-maintained schools
- academies and free schools
- pupil referral units
- non-maintained special schools
- independent schools
ThisThe guidance provides clarification on the use of force:
- to help school staff feel more confident about using reasonable force when they feel it is necessary
- to make clear the responsibilities of school leaders and governing bodies in respect of this power
Updates to this page
Last updated
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'Sixth-form colleges' removed from the 'it applies to' list on this page.
Update history
2025-12-18 16:38
Added ‘Restrictive interventions, including use of reasonable force, in schools’. This will replace the ‘Use of reasonable force in schools’ guidance from 1 April 2026.
2025-01-15 10:31
‘Sixth-form colleges’ removed from the ‘it applies to’ list on this page.