Every school must have a behaviour policy1. The governing body is responsible for setting general principles that inform the behaviour policy. The governing body must consult the headteacher, school staff, parents and pupils when developing these principles.
Headteachers are responsible for developing the behaviour policy in the context of this framework. They must decide the standard of behaviour expected of pupils at the school and how that standard will be achieved, the school rules, any disciplinary penalties for breaking the rules and rewards for good behaviour. The behaviour policy must include measures to prevent all forms of bullying among pupils. Headteachers must publicise the school behaviour policy, in writing, to staff, parents and pupils at least once a year.
1Section 89 of the Education and Inspections Act 2006 for maintained schools and the Independent Schools Standards Regulations 2010 for Academies and Free Schools. What follows is a description of how the law works for maintained schools.
