A school exclusion can have life-changing consequences for students, affecting their exams, friendships, university options and even career prospects. Yet, in the independent sector, fewer procedural safeguards exist than in state schools. For example, an independent school’s decision to exclude a student is not a public law decision and hence is not amenable to judicial review.
Our barristers have extensive experience of helping students and their families overturn a school’s unjust decision. We have dealt with students expelled for a range of reasons, from alleged sexual misconduct to posting inappropriate messages on social media. Our barristers have expertise in contract law, consumer law and discrimination and can help families construct a solid, persuasive case to maximise the chances of a successful outcome. As well as providing advice, we can draft documents, communicate with the school, and represent the parents/student at school hearings. If the matter goes to litigation, some of our barristers are authorised by the Bar Standards Board to conduct litigation, which may obviate the need to instruct separate solicitors and therefore save costs.
In our experience, it is important to involve a barrister early in the disciplinary or appeals process to ensure that the best strategy is identified and implemented.
Contact us for a free, confidential enquiry. Just call us directly on 0800 368 9230 or complete the online enquiry here to discuss your case.
