The start of a new school year is an exciting milestone for many children. New teachers, new classmates and a return to routine can help children feel settled after the summer holidays. However, for separated parents, the beginning of the school term can also bring new challenges when it comes to child contact arrangements.

As children grow older, their routines naturally change. School hours, homework, after-school clubs, sports, childcare and parents’ work commitments can all affect the arrangements that were previously in place. If your current child contact arrangements are no longer working, the start of a new school year is often the perfect opportunity to review them.

Our experienced family law solicitors regularly advise parents across Scotland on child contact arrangements, child residence, and parental responsibilities and rights. In this guide, we explain why the new school year can affect existing arrangements, what Scottish law says, and how parents can work together to put their child’s best interests first.

Why the Start of the School Year Often Brings Changes

During the summer holidays, many families follow a completely different routine. Children may spend longer periods with each parent, holidays may be shared differently, and school runs are replaced with childcare or family activities.

Once school begins again, those arrangements may no longer be practical. New timetables, changing work patterns and additional commitments can mean parents need to reassess how child contact works during the school term.

Common reasons parents review child contact arrangements include:

• Changes to school start and finish times.
• One parent changing jobs or working hours.
• A child starting nursery, primary school or secondary school.
• New after-school clubs, sports or music lessons.
• Changes to school transport.
• Different childcare requirements.
• One parent moving closer to or further away from the child’s school.

What worked well a year ago may no longer meet your child’s needs. Reviewing arrangements before the school term begins can help prevent misunderstandings and reduce unnecessary conflict.

What Does Scottish Law Say About Child Contact?

In Scotland, decisions involving children are guided by one fundamental principle: the welfare of the child comes first.

When parents cannot agree, the court will always consider what arrangements are in the child’s best interests. The focus is not on what either parent wants, but on what will best support the child’s welfare.

The court may consider factors such as:

• The child’s age and maturity.
• Their emotional, educational and physical needs.
• The relationship they have with each parent.
• The importance of maintaining stability.
• Whether the child is mature enough to express a view.
• Any concerns regarding the child’s safety or wellbeing.

Scottish family law encourages parents to reach agreements wherever possible. Court proceedings are generally viewed as a last resort, particularly where constructive communication remains possible.

Why Stability Matters During the School Year

Children often benefit from having a consistent routine, particularly during the school term.

Returning to school is already a significant adjustment, especially for younger children or those moving to a new school. Consistent child contact arrangements can provide reassurance, reduce uncertainty and help children settle into their new routine.

Stable arrangements can support children by:

• Providing predictable routines.
• Supporting good attendance and punctuality.
• Allowing sufficient time for homework and revision.
• Reducing stress and anxiety.
• Enabling participation in extracurricular activities.
• Maintaining meaningful relationships with both parents.

Where possible, parents should aim to minimise disruption and avoid placing children in the middle of disagreements.

Practical Matters Parents Should Discuss

Before the new school year begins, it is worth discussing how day-to-day arrangements will work.

School Drop-Offs and Collections

Consider questions such as:

• Who will take the children to school?
• Who will collect them?
• Will grandparents or childcare providers be involved?
• How will unexpected changes be managed?

Agreeing these arrangements in advance can avoid confusion and help ensure consistency for your child.

Homework and Study

As children progress through school, homework and studying often become increasingly important.

Parents should discuss:

• Where homework will be completed.
• How information from school will be shared.
• Whether both parents have access to online school systems.
• Supporting exam preparation where appropriate.

Maintaining consistency across both households can help children stay organised and focused.

After-School Activities

Many children take part in sports, clubs or other extracurricular activities.

Discuss:

• Who will provide transport.
• How costs will be managed.
• Whether activities affect overnight contact.
• Ensuring both parents can attend important events where appropriate.

School Events

Parents’ evenings, sports days, school performances and award ceremonies are important milestones.

Where appropriate, both parents should be kept informed so they can remain actively involved in their child’s education.

Communication Makes a Difference

Respectful communication can often prevent minor issues from developing into larger disputes.

Although communication may not always be easy following separation, keeping discussions focused on the child’s needs rather than past disagreements often leads to better outcomes.

Many parents find it helpful to:

• Agree arrangements well in advance.
• Confirm plans in writing.
• Share important updates from school.
• Notify each other of any changes as early as possible.
• Keep communication child-focused.

A cooperative approach generally benefits everyone involved, particularly the child.

What If We Can’t Agree?

Unfortunately, not every family is able to reach an agreement about child contact arrangements.

Disagreements commonly arise regarding:

• Overnight contact during the school week.
• School catchment areas.
• Holiday arrangements.
• Extracurricular activities.
• School collections.
• Changes to existing routines.

If discussions have broken down, seeking legal advice early can often help prevent matters escalating.

A family law solicitor can explain your legal position, assist with negotiations and advise on the options available. In many cases, an agreement can be reached without the need for court proceedings.

Can Child Contact Arrangements Be Changed?

Yes. Child contact arrangements should evolve as children grow and family circumstances change.

For example:

• A child starts secondary school.
• A parent changes their working hours.
• One parent relocates.
• A child becomes more involved in sports or hobbies.
• A teenager wants greater flexibility.

If your current arrangements are no longer practical, reviewing them can help ensure they continue to meet your child’s needs.

However, if your arrangements are set out in a court order, you should obtain legal advice before making significant changes.

When Should You Seek Legal Advice?

Seeking advice from a family law solicitor at an early stage can often help resolve issues before they become more complex.

You may benefit from legal advice if:

• Your child contact arrangements are no longer working.
• Your former partner is not following the agreed arrangements.
• You cannot agree on school-term routines.
• You have concerns about your child’s welfare.
• One parent wishes to relocate.
• Communication has broken down.
• You need to apply for or vary a court order relating to your child.

Every family is different. Obtaining tailored legal advice can help you understand your rights, explore your options and work towards an arrangement that supports your child’s best interests.