Complaints about the school curriculum
Under the provision of the Education Reform Act 1988 schools are required to inform parents of the procedure for dealing with complaints about the school curriculum.
Stage 1
The parent should first address a complaint or comment to the class teacher who will usually be able to resolve most problems.
Stage 2
If the problem has not been resolved to the parent's satisfaction the complaint should be taken to the head teacher who will acknowledge receipt within five days. The head teacher will endeavour to resolve the problem and record the complaint, the outcome of subsequent discussions and any advice given.
Stage 3
If the parent feels dissatisfied with the outcome of Stage 2 the complaint should be given in writing to a governor who will contact the chairman or, in his/her absence, the vice chairman. An acknowledgement of receipt of the complaint will be sent to the parent within three days, explaining who is dealing with the complaint and when they may expect a full reply (which should normally be sent within 10 days). If a consultation is required with other agencies such as Education Welfare, the school doctor etc and a full response will not be possible within 10 days; the letter of acknowledgement will explain the reasons for an extended response time and an indication of when a full response will be made. The governors' full response letter will also make it clear that the parent can finally appeal to the School Support Office.
Stage 4
If after the governors' letter the parent is still dissatisfied the complaint can be referred to the School Support Office.
We hope all complaints can be resolved at the first stage and encourage anyone who has a concern about their child's progress to discuss the matter with the child's class teacher.