Disputes against Independent Schools

Our specialist team has extensive experience in dealing with disputes on behalf of parents against independent schools. The team are dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcome for her clients through negotiation and, if necessary, litigation.

We have assisted a number of parents with the following disputes (this list is not exhaustive):

• Parents who withdraw pupils without giving a term’s notice leading to non-payment of school fees
• Expulsion/suspension or requests for removal of pupils
• Complaint hearings
• Bullying
• Discrimination issues
• Breach of contract/negligence claims

Given that the legal relationship between a parent and a school in the independent sector is one of contract, parents will necessarily demand a high level of service in return for fees paid. Often parents will find that the level of education being provided to pupils is not of a sufficiently high standard. Parents often feel vulnerable in disputes with independent schools as these schools do not need to conform to the Education Acts or Guidance issued by the Department for Education the way state schools do. This does not however mean that they are above the law. Independent schools must still apply the rules of natural justice and public law principles in addition to having regard to Independent School Regulations.

Our experts assist clients by focusing on preventing lengthy litigation and the associated risk of costs by primarily bringing matters to an amicable resolution for both parties as quickly as possible and, most importantly, in the best interests of the client.

Want to know more, contact us