Volunteers required: Independent Review Panel members to hear School Exclusion Reviews

Independent Review Panels consider a parent’s request for a review of the decision of a Governing Body to permanently exclude a pupil from school.

We are currently recruiting volunteers to sit on Independent Review Panels.

The review panel is generally made up of 3 members who must fall into one of three categories – lay member, school governor or Headteacher.

All panel members receive training from Legal Services on the exclusions process and the role of the review panel. There would be an expectation that you would travel to another area of the County to that in which you work to avoid any allegation of bias. You will be entitled to travel expenses for the travel you undertake in connection with a review or training.  You may also be approached to sit on “out of county” reviews.

The work of a panel member is an important role that is not overly time consuming. I do realise that as Headteachers you already have many duties and engagements that you must fulfil. However, if you are interested in sitting as a Panel member or have any queries on this issue, I would be grateful if you could contact me in accordance with the details given below and I will be more than happy to discuss the matter further with you. It is hoped that the training will take place early in 2018.

If you know any recently retired Headteachers who might be interested in this role please pass on this information and my contact details.

Tania Martin, School Appeals Officer

Resources Group, Legal Services, Shire Hall, Warwick CV34 4RL

Tel: 01926 736381, Email: schoolappeals@warwickshire.gov.uk