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Consultation - ignore parents at your peril?
Friday, 08 July 2011 00:00
The legislation governing Academies is pretty scant when it comes to how to consult with those who may be interested in the Governors' decision-making process; it simply says that the Governors' must 'consult' any person they think 'appropriate'. Employees are covered by more specific employment law but it is clear from our experience that it is the parents who may prove the biggest challenge.
Having parents on board is key to the success of any Academy. If pupils start leaving as a result of the change in status a once thriving school could find itself facing funding cuts and struggling to maintain its reputation.
Consultation at an early stage is therefore important and the following points are worthy of consideration from the outset:
- Feeling included – obviously much discussion will have taken place at Governor level and a preliminary decision on whether to make an expression of interest to the Department of Education may even have been taken but parents will not thank you for presenting them with a fait accompli. Ensuring they feel part of making the final decision will serve you well.
- Be prepared – there are very few parents who will have no interest in their child's education and conversion to Academy status will to them suggest a significant change to the way the school is managed. There are likely to be difficult and complex questions asked so taking appropriate legal advice at an early stage can be invaluable.
Schools who have perhaps been less aware of the views and needs of parents have found themselves the subject of unwanted media and press attention and even demonstrations outside the school.
For more advice on this or any other issue surrounding conversion to Academy status please contact Amy Laver or Richard King on 01392 207020 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
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