The challenge
A parent brought a disability discrimination appeal in the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal following the permanent exclusion of their child from a mainstream middle school. The head teacher and governors needed legal support to respond to the appeal and present the school’s position.
The proceedings required a detailed examination of the evidence surrounding the exclusion and the parent’s discrimination allegations. For the school, the challenge was not simply to explain its decision, but to address the case brought against it through a carefully considered response. With lengthy proceedings ahead, advice on both the evidence and the strategy for defending the appeal was central to our support.
How we helped
Tees provided advice, assistance and representation to the head teacher and the responsible governing body throughout the lengthy proceedings. Our support combined detailed analysis of the evidence with advice on the strategy for responding to the appeal, bringing the preparation of the school’s case and its representation together.
We examined the available evidence, including a review of CCTV footage, and advised on how that material informed the school’s position. This evidence-led approach underpinned our strategic advice and our work in defending the appeal. Throughout, our role was to support the head teacher and governors with the legal aspects of the proceedings, from assessing the material before the Tribunal to representing the school’s case.
The outcome
The appeal was successfully defended and no findings were made against the school. The case illustrates the value of detailed evidence analysis, considered strategy and legal representation when responding to a disability discrimination appeal. Tees supported the head teacher and governing body throughout the proceedings, helping them bring the matter to a successful conclusion.
Why work with the Tees education team?
When your school is facing a disputed exclusion or a disability discrimination appeal, you need advice that connects the detail of the evidence with a clear strategy. This case demonstrates how the Tees education team brings together careful preparation, strategic advice and representation to support head teachers and governing bodies through challenging proceedings.
Facing an education dispute? Speak to the Tees education team about your school’s situation and the support you need. Whether you are responding to an appeal or considering your next steps, contact us to discuss how we can help you assess the issues and plan your response.
