Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Education Law and Faith Schools

As there's many aspects of law that effect the education sector, if you work for a school, college or university, then you're likely to need the help and advice of of an education law solicitor.
Here's why you'll need help with education law.
1. Education establishments need to accountable, and so need to do everything properly, and within the law. If you're not sure about best practice, or how best to manage, why not see how an education law solicitor can help.
2. As health and safety is such a concern for parents of pupils, it needs to be taken care of. No matter whether conducting a science experiment, or planning a trip abroad, the activity will need to meet the relevant legislations, and the risks will need to be fully assessed.
3. Your policies for pupil and staff discipline will need to be checked regularly to ensure that they are still up to date and valid, and that they are enforceable, and comply with relevant laws.
4. Employment laws still apply in educational establishments, so you'll need to be aware of laws regarding working hours, staff contracts and workers' rights.
5. Remember that your recruitment policies need to be fair, and that there is no discrimination within your education establishment. You'll also need to make sure that all necessary checks are carried out on new staff too.
6. It's important that staff contracts, and internal policies regarding IT are reviewed regularly to ensure that they are up to date and legally binding. If you're not sure, why not speak to an education law solicitor?
7. You might be dealing with many suppliers and have lots of contracts for supplying cleaners, meals, emergency cover teachers, IT systems and more. You'll want to make sure that you're getting the best deals, and that you're not being treated unfairly.
8. As some schools and colleges rely on donations and funding, it's important that all of the money is accounted for, and that the school is run in a right and proper way in order to meet the legal requirements.
9. Perhaps you're involved in estate management, and buying and selling school grounds or buildings. You'll want to make sure that you get the best deals, and that you meet the legal requirements, so as not to fall foul of the law.
10. If you're considering expanding the school, you'll want to obtain planning permission, and to make sure that it is in the best interests of the school. There will also be construction and environmental laws that will need to be considered too.