Hi there,
Schools can sometimes exclude you if you’ve broken the rules or your behaviour is affecting others. It’s usually because something serious has happened.
Sometimes, people act in a certain way because of pressures both inside and outside of school, and being excluded shouldn’t stop your school from supporting you.
Hearing that you’re being excluded can be scary and it’s important you understand why and what will happen next. There are lots of reasons why someone might be excluded but it should be made clear to you what the reason is and how long you’re going to be excluded or suspended for.
You should be given the chance to explain your side of things. If you aren’t given that chance, it’s not fair on you.
Everyone makes mistakes and we all do things wrong from time to time. Things at home or pressure within school might make you do and say things you later regret. That doesn’t make it okay if you break the rules or hurt someone, but you should still be able to get support.
Being suspended or excluded is your punishment, but this shouldn’t also mean you’re stopped from getting help.
If your exclusion isn’t permanent it can help to apologise to show that you’re sorry.It may not change the school’s decision but admitting when you’re wrong and saying sorry can help you feel better about yourself and make things easier when you go back.
Anger is a natural emotion that can be useful sometimes - but it’s important to learn ways to express your feelings without harming yourself or anyone else.
If you feel you’re getting stressed or frustrated once you return to school, try counting to 10 or taking three long slow deep breaths to feel calmer.That way, you’re less likely to react when you start to feel angry.
If your school work feels difficult,try asking for help before you feel overwhelmed. Talk to your school about things they can do to support you, both with your work and how you’re feeling.
It might help to have a pass to leave class for a couple of minutes if you’re starting to feel upset, have extra help with subjects you’re struggling with or have the support of a learning mentor.
Remember, every experience can give you a chance to learn about yourself and to think about how to do things differently in the future. And if you need to talk things through, Childline counsellors are always here for you.
I hope this advice has helped.
Take care,
Sam
