Summary: We cannot investigate Mr X’s complaint about an adult education course. This is because the law prevents us from investigating certain educational matters.

The complaint

1. Mr X complains about poor conduct by staff and other students during an adult education course. Mr X says this caused him distress.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. The Local Government Act 1974 sets out our powers but also imposes restrictions on what we can investigate.
3. We cannot investigate most complaints about what happens in schools. (Local Government Act 1974, Schedule 5, paragraph 5(2), as amended)

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How I considered this complaint

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

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Final decision

6. We cannot investigate Mr X’s complaint because the law prevents us from investigating certain educational matters. The restriction outlined in paragraph three extends to adult education classes.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman