Article 5: Resolution of disputes
25.This Article amends the 1996 Order by inserting a new Article 21B and provides an additional means of resolving disagreements between parents and Boards and/or Boards of Governors of grant-aided schools.
26.Boards are required to appoint an independent person (who is not part of the school or Board decision-making process) to facilitate the avoidance or resolution of disputes. Boards must take heed of any guidance issued by the Department of Education when making these arrangements.
27.Boards must ensure that parents and schools in their area are made aware of the dispute prevention and resolution arrangements. Boards must also inform such other interested parties as they deem appropriate. Parents who take advantage of these new arrangements will not lose any existing legal rights to lodge an appeal with the SENDIST.