Foundation, voluntary-aided and independent schools, etc.

Responsibility

The governing bodies of foundation, foundation special and voluntary-aided schools have similar responsibilities, as employers, to those set out for LAs.

In independent schools the employer may be a governing body or proprietor. The employer also has similar responsibilities.

In some circumstances there may be staff employed by the LA working on the premises of foundation, foundation special or voluntary-aided schools. The LA, as employer, has responsibility for their health and safety. The governing body also has responsibilities towards them, as visitors. See also next paragraph.

Some foundation, foundation special, voluntary-aided or independent schools may have links with the LA through such activities as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. Or some of the staff in some of these schools may be employed by the LA. Where either of these apply, the school should refer to the section Community and Voluntary Controlled Schools etc. above.

LA Advice

Many LAs provide health and safety advice to foundation, foundation special, voluntary-aided or independent schools. The Department encourages this. However, LAs are not responsible for the health and safety of pupils in these schools or of staff employed by these schools. This does not conflict with the LA's duties with regard to Asset Management Plans.