The Ombudsman for Children, Dr Niall Muldoon, has welcomed the publication of the general scheme of the Education (Parent and Student Charter) Bill, which will improve engagement between schools, students and parents.<\/p>\n
\u201cA Parent and Student Charter will present an opportunity to develop a culture of participation where children and young people are active contributors in school-based decision making, encouraging a child-centred approach.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe need for higher standards and consistency in school\u2019s complaints handling practice has long been advocated by the Ombudsman for Children\u2019s office and I very much look forward to engaging with the Oireachtas Education Committee and others in the development of these proposals.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile schools will be required to have procedures to deal with complaints as part of the Charter, I am also very encouraged that the focus of these proposals is to foster a culture of change within school communities so as to prevent grievances from arising.<\/p>\n
\u201cI also welcome the proposals in the draft legislation which relate to my Office. Three quarters of complaints concerning education which come to my office relate to individual schools. We strive for local resolution, working with children, parents and boards of management thereby, in the vast majority of cases, leading to fast and effective resolution in the best interests of children.<\/p>\n
\u201cI believe these proposals will further strengthen the role the OCO plays in encouraging good practice within schools.\u201d<\/p>\n