Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010

Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010

The Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 is a law which came into effect on 5 April 2010. It sets out the formal consultation process that councils must follow when proposing a permanent change to any of their schools. This could be, for example, a closure or change of catchment area.

To find out more about HM Inspectors involvement in the schools consultation process, please see our frequently asked questions below.

Can Education Scotland take my concerns into account?

The council set a six week period during which they must consider, amongst other things, concerns expressed by parents.

After the six weeks your council will send the results of their consultation to Education Scotland who then have three weeks to consider the council’s proposal and write a report. In considering the information sent to us by the council one of our inspectors may attend public meetings, meet with parents, consider papers sent to us by the council or consider concerns submitted to the council by parents.

Because we have a very short time to consider a council’s proposal, Education Scotland directly can’t address any concerns sent to us so you should send your concerns to the council.

Where can I find the report from HM Inspectors?

Reports are published on our website on the same date as the council publishes their final consultation. All reports can be found using the link below.

I am unhappy with my council’s proposal, who can I contact?

Normally councils will publish details of any proposals on their website.
If you are unhappy with what the council is proposing to change you should contact the council directly telling them about your concerns.

As part of the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010, when a council is proposing to make a major change to schools they must set a consultation period of at least six weeks and let stakeholders, such as parents, know. During this period the council will invite stakeholders, including parents, to respond to the proposal and hold a public meeting. These will ensure that you are able to give them your views the proposed changes.

You can also speak to your local councillor about your concerns. 

View our published reports