Tuesday 1st October 2024
The new school term may have only recently begun, however many parents will be thinking about where their children will be attending school in September 2025. Many schools, especially secondary, hold their open evenings in October, and information regarding the admission practicalities and process can be found on the UK Government website.
When deciding on a school place there is lots to consider, and for some it can be a source of contention, and tricky to resolve. This can be especially true for separated and divorced parents, where the disagreement may be based on a number of factors, and can be even harder if the two parents now live in different locations.
Whatever the source of the conflict, family mediation can be a very useful process, as it enables parents to discuss their issues in a non-confrontational way and can help them to find a way forward in the best interests of their child. In some circumstances the mediator can also meet with the child to ensure they have their voice heard, as these decisions will directly impact their life.
If parents are not able to come to an agreement then an application can be made to the court. This should always be last resort, and our mediators are highly skilled in helping parents reach a resolution. The relevant application is a Specific Issue Order. On receipt of such an application, the court will consider what is in the best interest of the child and refer to The Welfare Checklist.
At Stone King LLP, we appreciate that it can often be difficult to make decisions about choosing a school when you may have conflicting views, and that both parties will have their own opinions and concerns about what is best for your child. We are here to help to guide you through the mechanisms of such a major decision, and make sure the outcome is focussed on the needs of the child/children involved. If you would like further information, please call 01225 337 599 to get in touch with our Family Team.
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