Last reviewed on 28 March 2023
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 34475

Be sure you're dealing correctly with concerns and complaints with this run-down of what policies may apply. If you need an answer right away, use our decision-helper table to work out your immediate next steps.

This article is based on advice from Forbes Solicitors and the complaints guidance for maintained schools from the Department for Education (DfE). 

Always check your school's policies before taking any action. You can get into a serious mess if you don't follow your up-to-date, compliant policies to the letter. They may not be set out exactly as we've outlined in this article, but they should clarify what issues they deal with and how they link with other policies.

If you need a quick answer ...

If a situation has arisen at your school and you need an immediate answer at this stressful time, don't panic:

  1. Download our quick overview table to help you work out what policy you're likely to need
  2. Once you think you know what you're dealing with, double check it's definitely the policy you need by reading the relevant section below – use the examples and look for any crossover with other policies