UK teachers to get more 'search' teeth

The need to give 24 hours’ notice of detention will also be lifted. “Today we are removing red tape so that teachers can ensure discipline in the classroom and promote good behaviour,” said Gibb.

“Teachers should feel confident in exercising their authority, and pupils should not have to suffer disruption to their learning caused by the poor behaviour of others.”

New guidance on the use of force against pupils for safety or restraint will also be issued.
“Schools should not have ‘no touch’ policies and teachers should feel able to use force when they need to,” the Department for Education said.

At present, teachers only have power to search pupils without consent for hidden knives or other weapons. From September, rules come into force extending this power to looking for alcohol, drugs and stolen property.