Speeding offences normally result in 3 penalty points on your licence. (That assumes that it's a relatively minor offence which can be dealt with under the fixed penalty scheme. More serious speeding offences can result in a court apearance and a higher number of penaly points). Points continue to count for 'totting up' purposes for 3 years but you can't get them taken off your licence for 4 years.
For 'experienced' drivers (who've held a licence for more than two years), an offence which would bring the total number of points to 12 (or more) means a court appearance which, in almost every case, results in a driving ban.
For 'new' drivers (who've held a licence for less than two years), a total of 6 (or more) points results in the licence being revoked. This is an automatic procedure and there is no right to appeal. (Obviously, you can appeal against the the individual convictions if, for example, you believe that a speed camera was faulty but once you've acquired 6 points you can't contest the revocation of your licence). This is not the same as a ban (and doesn't involve a court appearance). It simply puts you 'back to square one' in the driver education process. (i.e. you can immediately apply for a provisional licence in order to practice for another driving test). It will probably also send your insurance premium sky high.
Chris