Pupils or those who hold Parental Responsibilities and Rights (PRRs) who want to informally update the forename of an enrolled pupil can do so at any time. This request should be made of the school the pupil attends, in writing to ensure correct spelling is recorded. This update will be added to our records as a "known as" name. This can include preferred shortened versions of a forename (Tom from Thomas for example), or a specific name a pupil prefers to be known as which is unrelated to their full name.
Surnames cannot be informally updated on our systems and as such schools will be unable to action such requests on this basis.
Pupils or PRR holders wanting to formally update either the forename or surname of an enrolled pupil are asked to provide confirmation that this name has been legally changed. This could include a court order specifying the change to be made or an updated birth certificate. Without confirmation of a legal name change, we are unable to update the legal name of any pupil on our systems.
Confirmation of any name changes made will be sent to the pupil (if 12 or over) and all PRR holders recorded on our system.
It is for PRR holders to resolve any dispute as to the legal name of any enrolled pupil. East Lothian Council have no view on name changes or any related disputes between parties. PRR holders may want to seek independent legal advice on the options available to them in their specific situation.
Comments, feedback or complaints relating to this process can be submitted through our feedback and complaints process.
Click here to view our comments, complaints and compliments process