1. Purpose
This procedure sets out how Evolution Education manages exceptional incidents where there is a significant concern for the immediate safety of a student, other learners or staff.
It provides a clear, transparent and consistent process that prioritises safeguarding and enables appropriate multi-agency decision-making.
This procedure is used only in exceptional circumstances. It does not replace Behaviour for Learning systems, graduated interventions or restorative approaches. The vast majority of incidents continue to be managed within the centre through appropriate support and intervention.
2. Temporary Placement Withdrawal
Where a serious incident or an immediate health and safety concern arises that cannot safely be managed through usual intervention strategies, Evolution Education may implement a temporary withdrawal from the provision pending an emergency placement review.
A temporary withdrawal is a short period during which relevant information is gathered, risks are assessed and appropriate support is considered before a decision is made about the student's continued placement.
3. Continuity of education
During a temporary withdrawal, students continue to receive learning through Purple Ruler, together with any additional work set by Evolution Education where appropriate.
This short-term educational arrangement has been discussed and agreed with Local Authority partners while an emergency placement review is undertaken.
Safeguarding concerns continue to follow the usual DSL route without delay.
4. Emergency Placement Review
An emergency review is arranged at the earliest opportunity and normally involves:
- the commissioning school;
- Evolution Education;
- parents or carers;
- the Local Authority (where appropriate);
- other relevant professionals where required.
Purpose of the review
- Consider the circumstances surrounding the incident.
- Review the completed health and safety and risk assessment.
- Consider any reasonable adjustments or additional support required.
- Determine whether the current placement remains appropriate.
- Agree any amendments to the student's programme, support plan or risk management arrangements.
Possible outcomes
- Return to Evolution Education with an updated support plan.
- A phased or amended programme.
- Additional multi-agency support.
- A recommendation that the commissioning school and/or Local Authority considers whether an alternative educational placement would better meet the student's needs.
5. Why this process exists
- Maintain the safety and welfare of all students and staff.
- Ensure consistency in responding to exceptional incidents.
- Strengthen multi-agency decision-making.
- Prevent informal or prolonged absences from education.
- Ensure students continue to access education while reviews are completed.
- Provide a transparent process aligned with commissioning practice and safeguarding expectations.
Our commitment remains to work collaboratively with schools and families to support students successfully within our provision wherever possible.
6. Related policies
Never wait for an emergency placement review to report a safeguarding concern. Act, report and record in the approved safeguarding system immediately.