Conflict Resolution in Schools

It is often argued that non-government schools are very accountable to parents because if parents aren't happy with a school, they simply leave.

However this situation is often very distressing and disruptive for both parents and children.

The VPC can act as a mediator for parents in disputes with schools. As in all such matters success is dependent on the parties' willingness to negotiate.

Unresolved Issues - Contact

• The Victorian Regulations and Qualifications Authority (03 9651 3290) which regulates and registers non-government schools.
• The Association of Independent Schools Victoria (03 9825 7200) which represents the interests of independent schools.
• The Catholic Education Office (03 9267 0228).
• The Victorian Institute of Teachers (1300 888 067) which deals with complaints against teachers.

Outside the Education Sector - Contact

The Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria -03 9603 8370

As part of the Department of Justice, this centre aims to help you with all manner of disputes including those that occur at school. The Centre offers support, guidance, strategies and mediation without you having to take legal action. They will assist you with school based issues free of charge to resolve disputes to the benefit of all parties. Click on this link to learn more about the Centre

Victorian Association for Dispute Resolution (VADR) wrote on their website that in any school community there is the potential for conflict. Students may misunderstand each other. Teachers may disagree on resource allocation. Parents may diverge on how the school should be. Emotions can run high on a variety of issues.

The potential for conflict exists because people have different needs, views and values. The challenge for schools, as for the wider community, is to find ways of managing conflict constructively so that those involved can learn and grow from the experience. VADR have publsihed a guide to encourage and help schools to achieve co-operative and supportive working relationships between staff, students and parents. It describes a positive problem-solving process, mediation, which, when utilised by schools, leads to less conflict and better outcomes for all involved.

The guide should be a useful resource for staff, students and parents. Contact VADR on 1300 305 806 or visit the VADR Website.