Use of reasonable force:
Other physical contact with pupils

It is not illegal to touch a pupil. There are occasions when physical contact, other than reasonable force, with a pupil is proper and necessary.

Examples of where touching a pupil might be proper or necessary:

• holding the hand of the child at the front/back of the line when going to assembly or when walking together around the school
• when comforting a distressed pupil
• when a pupil is being congratulated or praised
• to demonstrate how to use a musical instrument
• to demonstrate exercises or techniques during PE lessons or sports coaching
• to give first aid.