Our advice

If you're unhappy with the treatment your child has received at school, speak to their teacher first, and then with the principal. Talk to other parents - especially those of any other children who may be in the same situation as your child.

• Is the problem primarily related to your own child's poor behaviour? In this case, try to find a way to work with the school to improve matters.
• Is the problem caused by the teacher not coping well? You'll need to discuss this with the principal. Ask for a report back, and monitor progress.
• Is the problem caused by a difference between your child and the school over the reasonableness of school rules, discipline or educational philosophy? You could consider enrolling your child in another school - but that's not always feasible, and besides, if the school is out of touch, it may be time for the school rules to change. If you're in this situation, talk to other parents. Get a groundswell of support. You won't be able to do it on your own.
• If you think the school's approach breaks the law, write to the board of trustees - the board is elected to represent your local school community.
• If you have no luck with the board, you could write to the Education Review Office.

For free, independent legal advice from specialists in education law, contact YouthLaw or the Parents Legal Information Line (PLINFO) - a national service run through the Wellington Community Law Centre.

When a child goes home

Students are required to attend schools under the Education Act. This means if a child has to go home from school for any reason, there is an onus on the school to ensure the child's caregivers/parents are advised, so that proper supervision can be arranged. The younger the student, the more important this is.