Behaviours of Concern – Limiting Your Liability in Schools

Our 'Behaviours of Concern - Limiting Your Liability in Schools' training module is provided on the basis that 75% of school leaders have issues with managing behaviours of concern. Many schools have availed of our training module and have expressed their satisfaction with the content, level of engagement and practical tips.

We are now taking bookings for the remainder of the academic year.

Why we are offering this training package?

We are conscious of the daily challenges facing school leaders and staff in dealing with students exhibiting challenging and disruptive behaviours. We have represented schools in most of the landmark cases involving assaults on staff by students. Our Education Law team frequently supports schools in cases where the suspension and expulsion of students had been appealed in Section 29 hearings and on further appeals to the High Court.

Why do I need a 'Behaviours of Concern' policy and training?

The code of behaviour on its own may not be enough to protect your school. Schools that have a Behaviour of Concern Policy and can demonstrate training are in a much stronger position to limit liability. A Behaviour of Concern Policy can be inserted as an appendix to the code of behaviour. This course is aimed at safeguarding students and staff whilst empowering schools to face difficult scenarios with confidence.

Why bespoke training?

Every school operates in a unique context. Mainstream schools with or without special classes and special schools all have different needs. MHC will engage with the school leader in advance of the training to learn more about the school context.

What is the course outline?

• The legal framework- what you can and cannot do!
• Developing and implementing a robust incident reporting system
• How to deal with different scenarios and conduct a risk assessment
• Providing a Behaviour of Concern Policy template for your school
• Questions from participants and discussion

Who should attend?

Ideally, this could be for the whole school staff, to include teachers and special needs assistants. However, some schools may decide it is more appropriate to designate certain staff to avail of the training.

How is the course delivered?

• Format: online or hybrid (combination of online and in-person
• Duration: 2 hours
• This course can be delivered in one 2-hour session or in two 1-hour sessions, (Croke Park hours).
• Presenters: David Ruddy, Mason Hayes & Curran and Siobhán Allen, who is a former special school principal and education consultant with practical expertise in this area.

Our firm hosts Ireland’s only dedicated Education Law team. The team works exclusively on behalf of schools and educational institutions. Our lawyers possess a wealth of experience in representing schools in most of the landmark cases.

Is there certification for this course?

Yes! All participant schools will be provided with a certificate of training from Mason Hayes & Curran.

Do Mason Hayes and Curran provide training on other topics?

Our Education Law team also provides training on matters related to:

• Child Protection
• Code of Behaviour
• Data Protection
• Dignity at Work
• Duty of Care
• Health & Safety
• Recruitment