Use of reasonable force:
Power to search pupils without consent

In addition to the general power to use reasonable force described in these pages, head teachers and authorised staff can "use such force as is reasonable given the circumstances to conduct a search for knives or weapons, alcohol, illegal drugs and stolen items."¹

In addition to the general power to use reasonable force described above, headteachers and authorised staff can use such force as is reasonable given the circumstances to conduct a search for the following prohibited items¹

• knives and weapons
• alcohol
• illegal drugs
• stolen items
• tobacco and cigarette papers
• fireworks
• pornographic images
• any article that has been or is likely to be used to commit an offence, cause personal injury or damage to property.

Force cannot be used to search for items banned under the school rules.

Separate guidance is available on the power to search without consent – see the associated resources section for a link to this document.

¹ Section 550ZB(5) of the Education Act 1996