As a school, we work hard to maintain good relationships with the community we serve; however, sometimes people can see ways to improve things, and helpful suggestions are valuable. Sometimes people may want to voice a concern or even complain formally about issues related to the school.

This information advises you on how to make a suggestion or to express a concern to a school, and on the procedures agreed by many Cambridgeshire schools for responding to concerns or complaints.

Do you wish to make a suggestion?

• You can telephone, write to or e-mail the Headteacher at the school giving your ideas.
• You can expect the school to consider suggestions and to keep in touch with you over how you concerns are being responded to.

Do you have a concern?

• You should raise this informally with your child’s teacher or the Headteacher - whoever you feel is most appropriate. Always try to make appointments to see members of staff. Usually, your worry can be sorted out at this stage.

What can you expect of the school?

The school will:

• publicise details of our complaints policy
• respond within a reasonable time, with courtesy and respect
• be available for consultation within a reasonable time limit, considering the needs of pupils/ staff
• attempt to resolve problems using reasonable means in line with the school complaints policy and advice from Cambridgeshire County Council
• keep you informed of progress.

Do you wish to make a formal complaint?

• The recommended complaints policy for schools is designed to help find ways to resolve serious problems. It is a positive process based on negotiation and conciliation rather than conflict.

What can the school expect of you?

• It is usually best to try to solve a problem first by raising a concern informally; however, if you wish to complain formally you should write to the Headteacher at the school. This process is outlined in our Complaints Policy, available on the Policies page.