The new school term has just begun, but this September many parents are focusing a full 12 months ahead to September 2025, when their child will be due to start or change school.
Deciding which school you want to send your child to can be tricky, especially for separated and divorced parents who do not agree on which option is best.
“For separated parents who disagree on the choice of school for their child, this can be a difficult time of year,” says family dispute expert Bernadette Hoy.
“A number of factors can fuel the disagreement – faith, ideology and cost, for example.
Parents living in different locations
“And it can be especially hard where the two parents now live in completely different locations, or expect to be doing so a year from now. Even if they have agreed parenting arrangements, so that the child spends time with both of them, applying for a school place in one or other location can feel like a much longer-term decision.”
Whatever the source of the conflict, with their child’s future education in the balance, where can separated parents turn?
“If you can’t agree with the other parent about which school to apply to, then involving a family dispute specialist can be a useful way forward,” says Bernadette
“Family mediation is a process that helps ex-partners agree what will work in the best interests of the child.
“An independent, professionally-trained mediator can help you discuss and work out the best option, putting the child at the heart of this really important decision.
“In some cases, the child can be involved in the mediation discussions to ensure their own views and wishes are fully aired.
“Professional mediators work day-in, day-out to help empower parents to create long-term solutions for your particular circumstances,”
Anyone wanting to know more about the benefits of family mediation can visit Mediation – Collins & Hoy Solicitors (collinshoy.com) or call 020 8866 1820.