School Admission Appeals
We understand that parents want the very best for their child; including the best education. If you have been informed that your child did not obtain a place at your preferred school of choice, you may be asking what you can do.
Parental Preference
Parents must be provided with their preferred school of choice. However, a Local Authority may decide to reject this request where complying would ‘prejudice the provision of education or the efficient use of resources’ (e.g. the school has reached the pupil roll limit).
What to do if you don’t get your first choice of school
If you do not want to accept an alternative school offered, you can make an appeal. An appeal may be made to an Independent Appeal Panel (IAP).
The IAP is an opportunity for the decision to be reviewed by an independent panel which will include:
- Considering if the admissions process was correctly followed
- Provide parents the opportunity to explain why their child should be enrolled at the school
- Consider the school’s prejudice v prejudice the child would suffer
How do I make a successful school admission appeal?
In order to bring a successful appeal, it is important to:
- Check if the decision was made in line with the relevant legislation and procedures
- Consider if the school would actually be prejudiced by accepting your child
- Obtain evidence to support your case
- Submit clear written grounds of appeal ahead of any hearing
- Explain your case clearly at the hearing
School Admission Solicitors
Our school admission appeal lawyers are experienced in dealing with these types of cases. We can help you by:
- Advising whether the decision was made in line with relevant legislation and procedures
- Obtain further information and evidence needed to support your appeal
- Draft robust grounds of appeal
- Attend the hearing to put forward a robust appeal