This time of year, many parents are getting ready to send their children to school for the start of the new academic term.  For some parents this is the start of the window to apply for secondary school places, or, later in the winter term, to apply for a primary school place. There may be times when a parent thinks changing a child’s school needs to happen during the school year.  

The law in this country provides that important decisions about children’s lives should be made with the consent of all those who have parental responsibility (which normally includes both parents).  When parents cannot agree, a decision may need to be made by a court to have the choice made by a Judge instead.  This is called a specific issue application. The timing of this can be crucial, particularly when school places are in high demand in some areas.

In most cases, the legal costs associated with these types of application can be significant.  At Family Mediation and Mentoring LLP, we work with separated parents to help them resolve issues about school choices for their children, which will explore the concerns and what can be done to ensure both parents are comfortable with plans made (or not). Mediation can help parents reach an amicable agreement about a number of separated parent issues they may face, reducing their legal fees and keeping them out of court with a more likely chance of a successful co-parenting relationship in the future.

If you would like more information about how mediation can help you reach an agreement and stay out of court you may find that some of the information on our website is helpful – www.familymediationandmentoring.co.uk On our website, you can also book a free call using our calendar booking system so that you can ask us any questions that you may have. Or give us a call or drop us an email- 0800 206 2258  hello@familymandm.co.uk

‍