Welcome to Inspire Academy

How to Raise a Concern or Ask a Question

At our school, we want every parent and carer to feel welcomed, listened to and supported. Most questions or concerns can be resolved quickly through a simple conversation and we are committed to working in partnership with families to achieve the best outcomes for every child.

This page explains the best ways to raise a concern, what you can expect from us and how we aim to resolve issues as quickly and positively as possible.

The Best Way to Raise a Concern

Step 1 — Speak to us as early as possible

If something is worrying you, please speak to a member of staff as soon as possible. We are committed to being visible, approachable and easy to talk to.

You will regularly see members of our Senior Leadership Team (SLT) on the playground at the start and end of the school day. They are always happy to speak with you informally or arrange a time to talk in more detail.

You can also speak directly with your child’s class teacher, who knows your child best. If you need a quick conversation, teachers are usually available at the end of the school day once children have been safely dismissed.

If you would prefer a longer discussion or would like to speak with the Headteacher, you can make an appointment through the school office and we will arrange a convenient time.

Our aim is to make early conversations as easy and supportive as possible so that concerns can often be resolved informally before becoming more serious.

If You Need More Support

Step 2 — Further support and guidance

If your concern relates to a wider issue, or you feel you need further support after speaking with your child’s class teacher or a member of staff, the school office will help direct you to the most appropriate person.

This may include:

  • a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT)
  • the SENDCO for SEND‑related concerns
  • your child’s class teacher for additional follow‑up discussion
  • the Headteacher where appropriate

Our aim is always to work with you in a calm, constructive and respectful way so concerns can be resolved positively wherever possible.

If the Issue Continues

Step 3 — Formal complaints

If you feel that your concern has not been resolved informally, you may choose to raise a formal complaint through our Trust complaints process.

Formal complaints must be submitted using the Trust’s online Complaints Procedure Form, which can be accessed via the Trust policies page.

👉 View the Trust Complaints Policy and online Complaints Procedure Form 

Submitting the Trust complaints form does not automatically mean a matter will immediately progress as a formal complaint. In most cases, parents will normally be expected to have first raised concerns informally with the class teacher and then the Headteacher, unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Accessibility and Support

If you experience difficulty accessing or completing the online complaints form, please contact the Trust directly:

 What You Can Expect From Us

When you raise a concern, we will:

  • Listen carefully and respectfully
  • Seek to understand your perspective
  • Take concerns seriously
  • Respond as promptly as possible
  • Explain any actions or next steps clearly
  • Treat all parties with professionalism and dignity
  • Keep matters appropriate, confidential and child‑focused

We understand that concerns about your child are important, and we are here to listen, help and support you.

Response Times

We aim to:

  • acknowledge enquiries as promptly as possible
  • resolve informal concerns quickly where appropriate
  • explain clearly where additional time or information is needed
  • keep you appropriately updated throughout

Some matters may require additional investigation or discussion with other staff before a full response can be provided.

How School Processes Work Behind the Scenes

Sometimes additional steps are necessary before concerns can be resolved. For example:

  • staff may need to speak with your child or other individuals involved
  • teachers may only be able to respond outside teaching hours
  • senior staff input or safeguarding advice may be required
  • records or information may need to be reviewed carefully

We share this information so parents understand that concerns are being taken seriously, even where immediate answers are not always possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a concern?

A concern is anything worrying you about your child’s experience at school — large or small. We encourage parents to speak to us early so we can work together to resolve issues quickly where possible.

Do I need to put concerns in writing?

No.

Most concerns can be raised informally in person or by telephone. Formal complaints must, however, be submitted using our Trust’s online Complaints Procedure Form.

Who should I contact first?

Where possible, concerns should first be raised with your child’s class teacher.

If further support is needed, concerns may then be discussed with the Headteacher or another appropriate member of staff.

What if I’m unsure who to speak to?

Please contact the school office and we will help direct you to the most appropriate person.

Will raising a concern affect how my child is treated?

No.

Your child will always be treated fairly, kindly and respectfully. Raising concerns is a normal and important part of working in partnership with families.

What if my concern is about a member of staff?

Concerns relating to staff will be handled professionally, sensitively and in line with school safeguarding, policies and procedures.

We’re Here to Help

We value open communication and want every family to feel supported and understood.

By working together and addressing concerns early wherever possible, we can help ensure the best possible experience for every child.