Full Policy

D9 Concerns and Complaints 

Outcome statement

All complaints, concerns and incidents are attended to promptly, respectfully and professionally and seek to bring effective resolution to all parties concerned.

Scoping

In order to maintain a safe and comfortable environment for all students, staff and visitors, an accessible procedure for handling complaints and grievances will be implemented and maintained to provide an open and fair way of resolving issues and will comply with all relevant legislation.

Delegations

The board delegates to the principal full responsibility of ensuring processes are in place and operating effectively and adequately. 

In the event of a complaint or grievance concerning the principal, responsibility lies with the board.

Expectations and limitations

In complying with the policy, the principal shall not fail to:

• Implement and maintain robust procedures to meet the policy requirements

• Ensure that the process for complaints or grievances is clearly communicated 

• Ensure that the complainant has previously followed the school’s concerns and complaints procedure before escalating to board level.

Should the board receive a complaint regarding the principal or determine that any policy violation may have occurred, the board in the first instance will consider whether this may be dealt with in an informal manner (as per the employment agreement provisions that apply to the principal).

Where the board considers the degree and seriousness of the concern or any violation sufficient to warrant initiating a disciplinary or competency process, the board shall seek the support and advice in the first instance from an NZSBA adviser to ensure due process is followed. 

The board shall advise its insurance agent of any complaint escalated to the board.

Legislative compliance

Education and Training Act 2020

Relevant employment agreements

Relevant professional standards