Parental Rights
As a parent in Scotland, it's important to understand your rights and legal responsibilities under Scots and UK law regarding the education and welfare of your child. Knowing these rights can help you advocate for your child more effectively and ensure that their school is meeting its duties to support them.
You have the right to make choices about your child's schooling, including the right to have your views taken into account when decisions affecting their education are made. Additionally, you are responsible for ensuring your child receives a suitable education and attends school regularly.
Familiarising yourself with these rights and responsibilities will empower you to navigate the education system with confidence and get the resolution you deserve.
As a parent, what are my rights?
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Parental Involvement
All professionals, schools and local authorities should actively involve you as a parent in their work with children. Under the Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Act 2006, schools are required to:
- Help parents become more involved with their child's education and learning
- Welcome parents as active participants in the life of the school
- Provide easy ways for parents to express their views and wishes
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Additional support
If your child has - or may have - additional support needs, you have additional rights as a parent.
These include the rights to make a placing request to any school in Scotland, request the use of mediation services and ask your local authority to determine whether your child requires a co-ordinated support plan.
More information can be found on Education Scotland's website.
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Responsibility
Under the Children (Scotland) Act 1995, Parents and carers have the responsibility to safeguard and promote their child's health, development and welfare, providing direction and guidance to the child.
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Representation
A parent or carer has the legal duty to advocate on behalf of their child, this includes acting as the child's legal representative.
This only applies so far as it is practicable and in the interests of the child.
