It is almost the beginning of a new academic year where many parents are preparing for their child/ren starting school. Although applications are made well in advance of the academic year, it may be that in the near future you will be preparing for your child starting school and you are starting to consider which school your child will attend in the years to come.
Choosing which school your child should attend is an important decision that parents have to make, however, it can become a contested issue for many parents, especially upon separation. Conflict between parents who have separated can interfere when it comes to parents making crucial decisions for their children and it often leaves many separated parents asking, what happens when we can’t agree our child’s school?
What happens when we can’t agree on our child’s school?
Disagreements over schools can be a problematic issue for separated parents. Generally, making decisions as separated parents is very different and can be more complicated compared to when you were once a couple. Upon separation, it is fairly common to see parents allowing harboured negative feelings to get in the way when decisions pertaining to the children have to be made.
Making decisions is much more strenuous for parents who are no longer in a relationship as there can be some difficulty when it comes to trying to make a compromise.
The initial starting point in making decisions pertaining to which school a child should attend is for both parents to consult with one another and try to come to an agreement. It can be helpful and rewarding for separated parents to attend the schools together. This can encourage discussions for both parents to outweigh the pros and cons of each and to come to agree what school will be in the best interests of the child in terms of catchment area, travelling distance etc.
If you have been unable to reach an agreement between you, and there is sufficient time then you should consider attending mediation.
If you have difficulty communicating with your ex-partner or if there is a history of abuse, then having any direct discussions with them relating to the child may not be appropriate. If no progress has been made, speak with a solicitor who can advise you of the legal options available and what is the most appropriate for your individual circumstances.
If I have parental responsibility do I have a say in choosing my child’s school?
Where both parents have Parental Responsibility for a child, this means you are both entitled and responsible for choosing which school they should attend as well as any other practical decisions that may need to be made for the child. If you are unsure whether you have parental responsibility click here.
What happens if my ex-partner tries to change my child’s school without telling me?
If you learn that your child’s other parent has made arrangements to change your child’s school without your consent, and you do not agree to the move, then you should get legal advice as soon as possible.
If an agreement cannot be reached then it may become necessary to make an application to Court.
Here are 3 simple things to consider if you are having difficulty with your ex partner and you can’t agree on a school.
- Prioritising your child’s best interests. It is vital to put aside your feelings and focus is what is best for your child
- Be flexible and open to compromise. Be willing to consider options that may not be your first choice
- Effective communication. Honest and open communication, by keeping one another involved when making important decisions for your child can help maintain a level of respect which can help in these types of situations.
If you can’t agree on what school your child will go to or you are having any other family disputes, then we are able to assist and guide you on what the best course of action to take is given the circumstances of the case.
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