School leaders are navigating an ever-growing tide of parental complaints, which are often long, complex, sometimes aggressive and increasingly amplified by social media and artificial intelligence. In our latest Leadership Focus feature, journalist Nic Paton explores what a streamlined complaints system could mean for schools and why reform is urgently needed.

The article also tackles a crucial question: do leaders know the full extent of their legal and employment cover? Many schools cut back on protection to save costs, but this can prove a false economy. Without sufficient cover, even routine challenges can quickly spiral, adding stress, financial risk and extra workload for staff and heads.

Drawing on insights from NAHT experts, the feature explains:

• How complaints are evolving and why schools struggle to keep pace
• The real cost of inadequate legal protection and what can be done
• Support and advice available from NAHT to help leaders feel secure and equipped.

We know that behind every complaint is a school leader doing their best. NAHT provides guidance, advice and a listening ear so that no one has to face these challenges alone.