DET re-writes suspension and expulsion policy

By Jennifer Leete

Federation and other key education groups are currently involved in consultation with Department of Education and Training (DET) officers who are re-writing the "Procedures for the Suspension and Expulsion of School Students".

The current policy dates back to 1998. The decision to re-write it arises from a review of the procedures conducted by Professor Andrew Gonczi of the University of Technology, Sydney. Professor Gonczi made recommendations about the categories for reporting both short and long suspensions. This is of particular relevance given both the predilection of newspapers to get hold of suspension data through Freedom of Information applications (often with the motive of exposing a "crisis in discipline" in our public schools). It is also highly pertinent in relation to the issue of violence against teachers. Federation doesn't want suspensions reported in a way which covers up or downplays such violence.

During term 4, 2003, DET conducted a suspension reporting trial in the Ryde, Parramatta, Dubbo and Armidale districts. The trial included replacing the current categories of short suspension with a single category of "misbehaviour". Federation opposes such a change and feedback from the principals in the trial indicated they also oppose it.

The suspension categories being discussed during consultation on the new document are much more comprehensive.

It is likely that discussions around the new procedures will progress quickly and that they will be available some time during term 2.

For further information

March 2004 contents