School responsibilities
Schools cannot remove a pupil from roll because of health reasons
Under Section 100 of the Children and Families Act 2014, schools, academies, and pupil referral units must plan how they support pupils with medical conditions. This law started on 1 September 2014.
Schools must follow guidance from the Secretary of State and make sure their policy explains who is responsible for supporting pupils with medical needs.
Key points
- Pupils with medical conditions should be fully supported so they can take part in all education, including trips and PE.
- Schools must have arrangements in place to support these pupils.
- Schools should work with health professionals, parents, and pupils to meet their needs.
Section 19 Support
Schools can refer a Staffordshire pupil for extra help under Section 19 of the Education Act 1996 if:
- The pupil has 15 or more I codes in the current school year (not consecutive).
The council will look at:
- The child’s needs
- What the school already offers
- How best to help the child return to full-time education
Support will be short-term (usually no longer than a term) and must include a return date.
How to refer
Email educationcoreoffer@staffordshire.gov.uk with:
- Completed referral form
- Signed attendance register
- Individual health and care plan
- Any supporting evidence
Optional: Add a needs assessment and reintegration plan.
From January 2025, referrals will be through Staffordshire Learning Net.
