What can I do about a teacher’s conduct?
- 30.08.2026
My teenager received a stand-down for repeated defiance. The school told us it is for five days, but a friend says it can be longer or that they may extend it. What limits does the law put on stand-downs?
A stand-down is a short formal removal from school for a specified period, permitted for misconduct that is a harmful or dangerous example to others. Under the Education and Training Act 2020, a student can be stood down for up to five school days at a time and for a maximum of ten school days in a school year. The principal must follow procedures, including notifying the parents and the board, giving reasons and providing a chance to respond, and the student must return at the end of the period. Longer removal requires a formal suspension process involving the board. During a stand-down, the school should provide work to keep the student learning. Ask the school for the notice in writing, and query any extension.
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