Opogo H&S Series: Use of Reasonable Force

This short course, led by Phil Denton, Director of Education at Opogo Education, delves into the critical topic of reasonable force in educational settings. Following the guidance provided by the Department for Education (DfE), the course aims to equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle challenging situations effectively and lawfully.

What is Reasonable Force?

The course begins by defining reasonable force, explaining it as the minimum force necessary to prevent harm or maintain order. It emphasises the importance of proportionality and necessity in applying force, ensuring that actions taken are appropriate to the situation.

What Can Reasonable Force Be Used For?

Participants will learn about the various scenarios where reasonable force may be applied, such as preventing pupils from hurting themselves or others, stopping damage to property, and maintaining good order and discipline in the classroom.

Who Can Use Reasonable Force?

The course clarifies who is authorised to use reasonable force within a school setting. It covers the roles and responsibilities of teachers and other staff members, ensuring that everyone understands their legal rights and limitations.

Power to Search Without Consent

A key component of the course is the power to search pupils without their consent. This section outlines the circumstances under which searches can be conducted, the types of items that can be searched for, and the procedures that must be followed to ensure compliance with legal standards.

Communication Around This Subject

Effective communication is crucial when dealing with issues of reasonable force. The course provides strategies for discussing these matters with pupils, parents, and colleagues, fostering a transparent and supportive school environment.

Staff Training

Finally, the course highlights the importance of ongoing staff training. It offers guidance on how to implement regular training sessions to keep staff informed about the latest policies and best practices related to the use of reasonable force.

You can now watch the video in the lesson, review the official DfE policy in the materials section and take the quiz in order to gain your certificate.