Education (Scotland) Act 1980 Section 70 guidance document: analysis of consultation responses

Introduction information

Question 1: Is the information provided in the introduction clearly set out?

* = percentage totals may not always equal 100 due to rounding

11. Most of those who responded to this question indicated that they felt the information provided in the guidance was clearly set out. The vast majority of those who were satisfied with the document's clarity offered no further comment. One comment asked that the guidance define that a responsible body includes grant aided and independent schools.

12. Some of those who responded to this question indicated that the information in the introduction was not clearly set out. Comments included that the guidance should be more user friendly and more accessible for parents, children and young people; the terminology in the guidance should be consistent and refer to a complaint, rather than a reference; and the role of HMIE should be clarified.

13. In response to the comments raised about accessibility, the guidance has been amended in places to provide more clarity. The Scottish Government are working closely with Enquire, the advice and information service for additional support for learning, to ensure that the resources that they produce for parents and carers are updated to reflect the amendments to the legislation. This will also include resources aimed at children and young people.

14. In response to the comments about terminology, complaint is now used throughout the guidance to ensure consistency. Regarding the role of HMIE, on balance, it was felt that this was sufficiently explained later in the guidance.