Teachers have statutory authority to discipline students whose behaviour is unacceptable, who break the school rules or who fail to follow a reasonable instruction Section 90 and 91 of the Education and Inspections Act 2006).

The power also applies to all paid staff (unless the headteacher says otherwise) with responsibility for students, such as teaching assistants.

Teachers can discipline students at any time the student is in school or elsewhere under the charge of a teacher, including on school visits.

Teachers can also discipline students in certain circumstances when a student’s misbehaviour occurs outside of school.

Teachers have a power to impose detention outside school hours.

Teachers can confiscate students’ property.