The Department for Education (DfE) Guidance on the Use of Reasonable Force in Schools provides a framework for schools in England to manage challenging behaviour while ensuring the safety and dignity of pupils and staff. It outlines when and how reasonable force can be used, offering clarity to educators on their legal rights and responsibilities.

This document explores the key elements of the guidance and its practical implications for schools.

Key Principles of the DfE Guidance

1. Definition of Reasonable Force
   
   • Reasonable force refers to actions involving physical contact used to control or restrain pupils.
   • The degree of force must be proportionate to the risk of harm or disruption.
   • Examples include guiding a pupil to safety, breaking up a fight, or preventing damage to property.
2. When Force Can Be Used 
   Reasonable force can be used to:
   
   • Prevent harm to oneself, others, or property.
   • Maintain good order and discipline in the classroom or elsewhere.
   • Remove disruptive pupils from a classroom or event.
   • Force should always be a last resort, used only when de-escalation techniques have failed or are not viable.
3. Legal Basis
   
   • All school staff have a legal right to use reasonable force under the Education and Inspections Act 2006.
   • Staff authorised by the headteacher can also use force if necessary.
4. Safeguards for Pupils
   
   • Force must never be used as a punishment.
   • Restraint techniques that restrict breathing or cause pain should be avoided.

Responsibilities of Schools

1. Develop a Clear Policy
   
   • Schools must have a policy on the use of force, included as part of their behaviour policy.
   • The policy should outline:
     
     • When force may be used.
     • The types of force considered acceptable.
     • Procedures for recording and reporting incidents.
2. Training for Staff
   
   • While the law does not mandate training for all staff, it is recommended that schools provide appropriate training for those likely to use force.
   • Training should focus on de-escalation techniques, safe restraint methods, and understanding pupil behaviour.
3. Record and Report Incidents 
   
   • All incidents involving reasonable force should be documented, including:
     
     • The context of the incident.
     • The actions taken and why force was deemed necessary.
     • The outcome, including any injuries or follow-up measures.
   • Parents should be informed about incidents involving their child, ensuring transparency.
4. Promote a Culture of Respect 
   
   • Encourage positive behaviour through preventative measures and de-escalation strategies.
   • Use restorative approaches to resolve conflicts and build relationships.

Practical Applications of the Guidance

Examples of When Force May Be Used

• Preventing Injury: Intervening to stop a fight or pulling a child away from a dangerous situation.
• Protecting Property: Stopping a pupil from deliberately damaging equipment or school facilities.
  Maintaining Order: Removing a disruptive pupil from a classroom when their behaviour is preventing others from learning.

Examples of Force to Avoid 

• Techniques that involve pressure on the neck, chest, or joints.
• Force used as a punishment or to cause distress or humiliation.
• Restraint that restricts breathing or causes prolonged pain.

Key Safeguards for Pupils

• Proportionality: Force must be the minimum required to achieve the desired outcome.
• Respect for Dignity: Ensure actions do not cause unnecessary embarrassment or harm.
• Focus on Safety: Prioritise the welfare of both pupils and staff during and after incidents.

Relevance to the School Environment

• Behaviour Policies
  
  • Schools must clearly define the role of reasonable force within their behaviour policies.
  • Policies should emphasise de-escalation techniques and alternative strategies.
• Staff Training
  • Staff must understand their legal rights and responsibilities regarding reasonable force.
  • Specialised training is essential for staff working with pupils who may exhibit challenging behaviour, such as those with special educational needs (SEN).
• Safeguarding and Inclusion
  • The use of force must always align with safeguarding policies.
  • Consideration should be given to how force might affect vulnerable pupils, including those with disabilities, mental health challenges, or past trauma.

Compliance and Monitoring

• Recording and Reporting
  
  • Maintain accurate records of incidents involving reasonable force.
  • Regularly review records to identify patterns, risks, or training needs.
• Parental Engagement
  • Inform parents promptly if their child has been involved in an incident requiring force.
  • Be transparent about the steps taken to manage and prevent future incidents.
• Regular Policy Review
  • Behaviour and use-of-force policies should be reviewed annually to ensure they remain effective and compliant with the latest guidance.

Conclusion

The DfE Guidance on the Use of Reasonable Force provides a clear framework for schools to manage challenging behaviour while safeguarding pupils’ rights and welfare. By implementing robust policies, investing in staff training, and fostering a culture of respect and positive behaviour, schools can ensure the safe and proportionate use of force when necessary.

The focus should always remain on de-escalation and preventative measures, with force used only as a last resort to protect the safety and well-being of all individuals in the school environment.