Information for parents and carers
While schools are focused on providing the best possible educational outcomes for all students, there may be occasions when practice does not meet certain standards or expectations, and a parent or others wish to make a complaint. Managing complaints appropriately by using fair and consistent practice is an important part of school operations.
Parents, families, students and members of the community affected by a decision or services provided by a Northern Territory Government school are entitled to seek a resolution of their complaints/concerns.
It is preferable for all concerned that complaints be resolved at the school level wherever possible.
Where this is not possible, the next step is to contact the Department of Education and Training (DET): Resolution Unit.
What is a complainant?
A complainant is a student, parent, community member, business or any other person affected by the actions of the Department of Education and Training and may include a departmental employee in their private capacity who has a complaint.
What might you need to talk about with your child's school?
· Individual student progress, attendance, participation, social & emotional matters
· Educational Adjustment Plan/Individual Learning Plan
· Access to support services
· Individual learning environments, teaching staff, homework, general student behaviour
· Individual programs for children with learning difficulties, additional needs or gifted & talented students
· Any other matter that does not meet your expectation and has not been resolved at the school level
The Department of Education and Training Complaints Management Schools Policy and Guidelines aim to provide a clear process for the management of complaints relating to NTG schools. You can find the relevant policies on the Department website.
Visit the NT Government website for information on how to make a complaint about your child's school.
Department of Education and Training Regional Contacts
To make an enquiry or a complaint about a government school, contact the school's regional office by phone or email schoolops.det@education.nt.gov.au.
| Regional office | Phone |
|---|---|
| Darwin | 08 8999 5612 |
| Top End | 08 8999 5612 |
| Central | 08 8951 1602 |
| East Arnhem | 08 8987 0807 |
| Big Rivers | 08 8972 5389 |
| Barkly | 08 8963 2014 |
You are welcome to contact NT COGSO for further information
You are welcome to include a copy (cc) to NTCOGSO when sending your complaint to the Department: enquiries@ntcogso.org.au