Discrimination in Schools

Our education team are recognised specialists in discrimination law with specific expertise in disability discrimination claims. No child or young person should be discriminated against because of their disability, race or gender by their school.

Many schools do not know or understand that their actions can even be considered as unlawful discrimination, others sadly act in wilful ignorance of their duties. Our specialist team can help stop the discrimination, hold those responsible to account and ensure your child is able to complete their education free from adverse and degrading treatment.

A parent can bring a disability discrimination claim against their school to the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal. A successful claim will result in a finding that a school has discriminated against a child, a letter of apology and other practical solutions such as training for staff. A finding of disability discrimination can also lead to further legal action in the civil courts, teacher disciplinary proceedings as well as adverse publicity for those responsible. In race or gender discrimination cases, claims can be brought in the County Court and successful claims will result in damages being awarded.

Services we provide:

  • Advising on whether a child has been discriminated against because of their disability, race or gender by their school
  • Advising on whether any discrimination by a school – due to a student’s disability, race or gender – can be resolved internally through a school’s complaints process without any further legal action
  • Advising and conducting disability discrimination claims against a school in the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal
  • Advising on discrimination claims to the County Court

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What clients say

"Geldards is very effective working with families with vulnerable children, taking a take a careful and efficient approach to billing."

Education, UK, Chambers & Partners 2023

"There's seamless communication between the lawyers and the paralegal team. They're very efficient, polite and friendly. I cannot fault them."

Education, UK, Chambers & Partners 2023

"Geldards is a market leader in the field of education law. The solicitors working at the firm draw on considerable experience in the field and their combined experience spans decades"

Legal 500 2024

"The team carefully support clients to navigate very difficult issues with clarity and confidence. They are warm, quick to respond, thorough, proactive and maintain excellent communication with clients."

Chambers and Partners 2024

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