The behaviour in schools non-statutory guidance says that schools should ensure that everyone can feel they belong in the school community and high expectations are maintained for all pupils.
Behaviour will often need to be considered in relation to a pupil’s SEND, although it does not follow that every incident of misbehaviour will be connected to their SEND.
Schools have duties under the Equality Act 2010 to take such steps as is reasonable to avoid any substantial disadvantage to a disabled pupil caused by the school’s policies or practices.
Under the Children and Families Act relevant settings have a duty to use their ‘best endeavours’ to meet the needs of those with SEND.
This is saying, that in line with these legal duties, schools should be aware of and anticipate likely triggers of misbehaviour in pupils with SEND and put in support in place to prevent or manage these.
Teachers can sanction pupils whose conduct falls below the standard which could reasonably be expected of them. If a pupil in these circumstances has SEND that has affected their behaviour, the school will need to consider what the law requires.
These would be considered reasonable adjustments.
The behaviour in schools non-statutory guidance says that schools should consider whether any reasonable adjustments need to be made to the sanction in response to any disability the pupil may have. It is also important for the schools to seek to try and understand the underlying causes of behaviour and whether additional support is needed.
