Mediation in education disputes is a positive, forward-thinking and confidential process designed to resolve issues between families and education teams. Working with an independent mediator can help reach solutions for a child or young person’s education and secure plans for their future.
Allocating a mediator to help you
The process is voluntary and if all people in any dispute agree to mediation an experienced mediator will be allocated.
Individual meetings
Your mediator will arrange an individual meeting with each person involved to explain the mediation process and gather information about the disagreement. You can also discuss possible outcomes and solutions and decide with your mediator if a mediation meeting should take place.
More info on individual meetings
Arranging the first mediation meeting
If all involved agree to proceed, a mediation meeting will be arranged. This may be an on-line video call or a face-to-face meeting at a neutral venue. Sessions can last 1-2 hours.
It would be useful to prepare a few things for the mediation meeting.
During the mediation meeting
During the mediation meeting, the mediator will not judge or impose solutions but will support everyone to work together. The mediator will encourage participants to listen and talk to identify and clarify areas of agreement and disagreement and help to generate and evaluate options for resolution.
After the meeting
After the meeting the mediator will prepare a written summary detailing any actions and agreements. The summary will be shared with all participants at the meeting. Sometimes a further meeting may be necessary.
More details info on the mediation summary
Even if an agreement is not reached, the conversations during mediation can help understand the differing points of view, building trust and respect and improving communication.
If mediation is not successful there are others ways you can address disputes, Resolve will signpost you or you can contact Enquire for further information.
Enquire the Scottish Advice Service for additional support needs 0845 123 2203
Why use mediation?
Mediation helps you engage positively with conflict.
How to access mediation
Our guide for quick and easy access to mediation.
Further questions?
Our team are here to listen and talk