Insights

Suspensions and permanent exclusions can lead to legal challenges, regulatory risk and negative outcomes for pupils. It is therefore essential that those involved in school exclusions are up to date on the relevant law, guidance and best practice, to ensure that suspensions and permanent exclusions are imposed lawfully and that those reviewing the decision of a Headteacher or Principal to exclude do so with a rigorous level of scrutiny.

As temperatures drop, so does the likelihood of a safe footing. Icy pavements, wet floors and muddy entrances are all too common at this time of year.

We are seeing a rapidly increasing number of enquiries relating to the management of pupil SEND and SEND funding, often involving parental complaints and claims of discrimination. These matters are frequently emotive, complex and time consuming, with no ready 'fix'.

Over the summer, we received a number of enquiries from schools following media coverage about whether our position on Fees in Advance (FIA) schemes had changed since the implementation of the VAT policy. 

Of all questions that our contracts lawyers are asked by schools, probably the most frequent relates to 'automatic extension' provisions in contracts.

From 11 November, UKVI will bring into the Immigration Rules a number of safeguards that have been operating as concessions since May. The focus is on clarity and consistency around guardianship, living arrangements and the documentation schools should see before issuing a CAS. Independent schools should review templates, processes and record keeping to ensure visa applications made from 11 November are compliant.