Just like in the commercial world, the education sector is bound by laws and regulations. Schools, Colleges, University and other educational establishments are increasing having to rely on legal assistance in order to ensure that the law is adhered to, and to settle disputes.
Education Law solicitors can advise on all legal issues that affect the education sector. Here are 10 of the common issues that Education Law covers.
1. Generating Income
Schools and other educational establishments are looking at different ways to create more income. By complying with education laws, income, and return on investment can be maximised.
2. Compliance
Educational establishments need to comply with discrimination laws and other workers' and pupils' rights. Staff and pupils shouldn't be discriminated against because of their gender, age, skin colour, race, religious beliefs, and sexuality, or for any other reason.
3. Special Eduational Needs
Schools that teach pupils with Special Educational Needs need to ensure that they are fully compliant with the relevant laws. Sometimes there are appeals and tribunals. And experienced Education Law professional can help either side to ensure that their voice is heard.
4. Grants and Loans
Some schools are fee paying schools, and so contracts will need to created and amended as necessary. In addition, grants and scholarships will need to be distributed evenly, and fairly. If there are any complaints or discrepancies, and Education Law solicitor will be able to help.
5. Interaction with the Private Sector
The education sector is looking at more ways of working with businesses, so that students and graduates have the relevant skills that businesses need. Education Laws ensure that the pupils are not exploited or undervalued.
6. Pupil Behaviour
Pupil behaviour has been increasingly in the news recently, and not always for the right reasons. From truancy to violence in the classroom, Education Law solicitors can advise either party to help achieve a suitable outcome.
7. Intellectual Property Rights
Computer and other technical work is more prevalent in schools and colleges nowadays, and the issue of Intellectual Property is increasingly important. Education Law can help advise on the legalities of work produced at school.
8. Students and Admissions
Popular schools, colleges and universities are often oversubscribed. This often leads to unhappy parents and pupils. Education Law can help ensure that all policies and procedures are followed properly, and that those who have not been admitted haven't been discriminated against.
9. Land and Property
School, Colleges and Universities are increasingly either in need of more land and property, or trying to sell off unused land or property. Education Law makes sure that the acquisition or disposal of land and property is done properly.
10. Accidents at School
Unfortunately accidents at school do happen, and these can sometimes be serious. Pupils and staff have a right to expect that the school buildings and equipment is safe, and there could be grounds for compensation. Accidents whilst at school could include any slips or trips in the playground, or on the sports pitch, as well as incidents in the chemistry laboratory or on a geography field trip. Education Law solicitors help to ensure that cases are dealt with properly.