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Linda Hynes and John Hogan recently held a seminar in conjunction with Legal Island that dealt with the issue of teacher underperformance in the education sector. Topics covered included protecting yourself against allegations of bullying, using fair procedures in performance and disciplinary matters, what sanctions should be imposed and dealing with appeals. The seminar took place in the Radisson...

Leman Solicitors were invited to speak at an Education seminar organised by Legal Island and held in conjunction with the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals (NAPD) in Croke Park. John Hogan advised principals on how to manage under performance of teachers in this well attended seminar.

Specific points covered included:

• How to avoid bullying and harassment...

With up to 20% of schools having insufficient places to meet demand, the rules surrounding school’s admissions policies are once again in the spotlight.

Under the watchful eye of Ruairí Quinn, the Department of Education is carrying out a comprehensive review of admission policies. The review, being carried out via a Discussion Paper on a Regulatory Framework for School Enrolment...

Bridget Sweeney -v- Board of Management of Balinteer Community School & Anor 2011

Latest statistics show that 1 in 4 pupils in secondary schools are victims of bullying. There has been a marked increase in schools seeking our advice on how to deal with bullying allegations and investigations.

Bullies change and adapt to use whatever tools are available. 'Cyberbullying' is bullying through internet or mobile phones. It has become a very normal part of bullying...

1. Ensure that there is a comprehensive and up to date Anti- bullying policy in place that is circulated to all staff members. Post the policy on a staff room board or online forum.  

2. Specifically allow a provision to enable an employee to make a bullying complaint against the Principal. Obviously the Principal should not be the investigator in this case.   

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A Principal once commented that every school has problems with bullying - whether they know it or not. There is no doubt that this is the case. There are so many different types of bullying that can take place in the environment of a school that it can be difficult to keep track. Furthermore the politics of dealing with the issue can be extremely difficult for any Principal or Board of Management....

The recent award of €88,000 in damages to former teacher Bridget Sweeney as a result of being bullied made headlines for the substantial sum of money involved. However the case also highlighted the precarious position of Principals in Ireland who are thrust into a very challenging role, most often without the appropriate guidance and support required.

If schools are to avoid the...

Our education law specialist Deborah Kearney was invited to address members of the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals (NAPD) at two very well attended conferences at the Stillorgan Park Hotel and Radisson Airport hotels in November.  Deborah advised on a variety of topics including discipline in the workplace.

For further information contact Deborah at dkearney@lemansolicitors.com...