Schools and learning

Physical Intervention and Corporal Punishment

This article looks at the use of physical intervention as outlined in the 1996 Education Act. Further information is available on the DfES parents website (see right hand side link).

The act clarifies the powers of teachers and other staff in school to use reasonable force to prevent students from committing a crime, causing injury or serious damage.

It should be noted that there is no legal definition of "reasonable force", however any force used needs to be in proportion to the circumstances of the incident and the seriousness of the behaviour or the consequences it is intended to prevent.

In exceptional circumstances, where there is an immediate risk of someone getting hurt, a member of the school staff may need to act with reasonable force. Examples of this may be to stop a small child running into the middle of a busy road or to prevent a child hitting someone else or throwing something.

Corporal Punishment

This is defined as any intentional application of force for the purpose of punishment, e.g. smacking or use of the cane, strap or belt. The use of corporal punishment is unlawful and is not carried out in any school within Hertfordshire.

Other Information

If you have any further queries about either of these issues, you should contact your child's school in the first instance.