Equality Act support for schools
We support schools in managing complex relationships with parents, local authorities and other stakeholders where Equality Act issues arise. Our education team provides expert guidance on the Equality Act 2010, which protects pupils from discrimination based on protected characteristics including disability, race, sex, religion or belief, sexual orientation and gender reassignment.
Our solicitors regularly act for schools and support them in managing high-stakes complaints and disputes relating to protected characteristics, working closely with schools to ensure the best possible outcome.
We've successfully supported schools in resolving complaints at an early stage, as well as robustly defending claims in the First-tier Tribunal (Special Educational Needs and Disability) and County Court where proceedings are necessary. The team also has significant experience in appeal cases that have given interpretation to the law.
We provide expert legal advice and practical support to all schools on preventing discrimination and promoting equality. This includes dealing with the most challenging complaints relating to admissions, exclusions, provision of education and access to facilities which may have Equality Act implications.
Contact us
How we can help
- Support schools through external proceedings, including defending claims in the First-tier Tribunal (Special Educational Needs and Disability) and County Court.
- Advise on complaints arising from decisions, actions or inaction in relation to pupils with protected characteristics, including discrimination, harassment and victimisation claims.
- Give strategic advice on all aspects of school operations which impact on equality obligations including admissions, exclusions, curriculum access, reasonable adjustments, uniform policies and behaviour management.
- Review documentation, draft robust responses to complaints and represent schools in complex disputes.
- Provide specialist training and guidance to trustees, governors, senior leadership teams and staff on equality obligations and best practice.
- Resolve disputes at the earliest opportunity to minimise disruption and reputational risk to schools.
Key contacts
Philip Wood
Principal Associate
Hayley O'Sullivan
Principal Associate
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