Criteria for Suspension of Students from Schools

Assoc Prof Fatimah Lateef asked the Minister for Education (a) how do schools decide on the suspension of certain students; (b) what is the duration of suspension to be meted out; and (c) how do schools deal with students with repeat or recurrent suspensions.

Mr Heng Swee Keat: MOE provides schools with guidelines to manage school discipline. Within these guidelines, each school then formulates its own discipline policies and school rules, taking into consideration its own needs and circumstances. The suspension of a student is a serious disciplinary measure that schools can adopt to manage student discipline and to deter inappropriate student behaviour. Combined with pastoral care and counselling, such firm discipline can help students learn from their mistakes.

The decision whether or not to suspend a student is based primarily on the nature of the offence committed by the student and the consequences stated explicitly by the school for that particular offence in their discipline policy. Schools generally administer suspensions when a student commits a serious offence and when they deem it advisable to withdraw the student temporarily from his class or school in order to signal clearly to him that his behaviour is not acceptable, as well as to maintain school discipline or safety. For instance, suspension can be salutary and serve to protect the rest of the school population when a student has exhibited violent behaviour.

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The duration of the suspension depends on the seriousness of the committed offence and the time necessary for the student to reflect and commit himself to good behaviour. Schools will inform the parents of the student and explain the reasons for their child's suspension and the exact duration (start and end dates) of the suspension. Where possible, they also work with parents to provide counselling and to show care, so that the student is given the support to reflect on his behaviour and rejoin the school community.

In managing students with repeat or recurrent suspensions, schools will engage the parents and work with them on how best to guide and support their children. It is in the best interest of the student that parents and the school work together to enable the student to correct his behaviour and to return to school.

Discipline is necessary for learning to take place in our schools. Schools need to provide a safe and orderly school environment that is conducive for learning and teaching. Students have a responsibility towards their own education and must demonstrate respect and consideration towards their classmates, schoolmates and teachers. Instilling values, character and discipline in our students is a shared responsibility for which schools need the support and partnership of both parents and the community.