Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about the Council’s interactions with a school the complainant’s child attends. This is because it does not meet the tests set out in our Assessment Code. We have no remit to investigate complaints arising from what happened in a school.

The complaint

1. In short, Ms X complains about the Council’s failure to provide information on what it recommended to a headteacher concerning their child.
2. Ms X says both her and her child have suffered adverse consequences because of the Council’s actions.

Back to top

The Ombudsman’s role and powers

3. We provide a free service but must use public money carefully. We do not start an investigation if we decide the tests set out in our Assessment Code are not met. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), as amended)
4. We cannot investigate most complaints about what happens in schools. (Local Government Act 1974, Schedule 5, paragraph 5(2), as amended)

Back to top

How I considered this complaint

5. I considered information provided by the complainant and the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.

Back to top

Final decision

6. We will not investigate Ms X’s complaint because it is related to what happened in her child’s school. The law says we cannot consider complaints about the conduct, curriculum, internal management, or discipline in schools. Ms X’s complaint therefore lies outside of our jurisdiction, and we have no powers to investigate.

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman