Independent Review Panels

 

​We provide trained and experienced governance professionals to support Independent Review Panels (IRPs), which are convened following a permanent exclusion where the decision has not resulted in reinstatement. Our team understands the importance of ensuring these reviews are conducted fairly, transparently, and in full compliance with statutory requirements.

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Our competitively priced service includes:

• Coordinating with the school, trust, and/or parent to compile a complete and accurate IRP information pack

• Distributing all documentation to relevant parties in a timely and secure manner

• Attending the IRP hearing to provide expert procedural guidance, capture high-quality minutes, and support the panel throughout the process

• Drafting and issuing a clear and compliant outcome letter, along with formal minutes, promptly following the review

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In some areas, we are also able to assist with sourcing experienced panel members, ensuring the panel is balanced, impartial, and fully equipped to carry out its duties.

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If you do not need the full package but need a clerk to attend the IRP and take the minutes and write and circulate the outcome letter, we can do that too on an hourly rate basis.

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Our goal is to reduce the administrative and procedural burden on schools and trusts, while helping to uphold fair process and the rights of all parties involved.

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Testimonials

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Steve Warren, Academy Business Director at St Nicolas School, Bucks (December 23)

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''We were unfortunate to have to need an Independent Review Panel for a recent permanent exclusion after the parent appealed. This led us to need professional outside assistance to arrange and run what would be our first ever IRP. Governance-Connected were professional from the outset, they reassured us that that they would deal with all aspects of the IRP up to and including the sourcing of panel members. They provided a clear SLA from the outset which was extremely cost effective when compared to other offerings. They managed the process effectively throughout taking all the stress away from the school. I would highly recommend Governance-Connected to any schools in the event they too need and IRP arranging quickly and correctly.''

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Clare McAleer - Slough & East Berkshire Multi Academy Trust (December 23)

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"Governance Connected have undertaken a couple of independent reviews for our Trust recently. With the increase in requests for these panels it has been imperative to find a quality provider to ensure a fair and legal process for families and school.

 

Governance Connected provides a comprehensive and complete service. From administration of the letters and documents, appointment of the independent panel members and arranging and clerking the hearing they take control of the whole process.  The panel members are experts in their fields and provide thorough challenge and review of the permanent exclusion hearing. The clerks supporting and coordinating the process are very professional and the quality of their work is to an excellent standard.  

 

As a governance manager it is imperative to know that these meetings are being undertaken professionally with fairness and transparency for all parties.  Governance Connected deliver a quality service with confidence.  

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The process of arranging an IRP can be a very difficult, and the need for professional and independent clerking in line with the guidance is critical.  Governance Connected were excellent, the service they provided was exactly that, professional, efficient and compliant. The communication was great, the pack that was provided was well organised and referenced, and the panel members were knowledgeable and effective in their roles.  Should we need IRP clerking services again we will not be looking elsewhere."