Physical intervention in schools

I would like to obtain the following information under the Freedom of Information Act:

 

  1. Does the Local Authority provide any specific approach to Physical Intervention in their schools by means of a third party training organisation and if so, which one?

 

  1. Does the Local Authority require providers of this type of training to their school to be accredited by the British Institute of Learning Disabilities (BILD), Physical Intervention Accreditation Scheme?

Devon County Council does not have any specific approach to Physical Intervention in their schools by means of a third party training organisation and therefore does not hold any information.

By way of advice and assistance, the Department of Education guidance to schools – Use of Reasonable Force 2013 does point out that:

‘Schools need to take their own decisions about staff training. The headteacher should consider whether members of staff require any additional training to enable them to carry out their responsibilities and should consider the needs of the pupils when doing so’.

Consequently schools in Devon are free to choose their training provider and whilst they may give consideration to BILD accreditation, there is no requirement or recommendation within the Department of Education guidance for them to do so.