Primary school appeals: insights from a head teacher

Q: My child didn't get into our first-choice school. Can I appeal the decision?

Absolutely! If you're unhappy with the initial admissions decision, you have the right to appeal. It's a fair process that allows you to present your case to a neutral panel. 

Q: What are some valid reasons to appeal?

There are several reasons why you might appeal. Maybe the allocated school doesn't cater to your child's specific learning needs or perhaps the distance creates logistical challenges that could negatively impact their well-being. The important thing to remember is that you know your child best and where they will be best suited. When considering an appeal, it could be useful to talk to your child’s current nursery to see if they can support.

Q: My child has a close sibling at my preferred school but they weren't offered a place. Is this something I can appeal?

Absolutely! Siblings attending the same school is a common reason for appeal. Be sure to check your local authority's admissions criteria, as sibling priority often carries weight in the decision-making process.

Q: The headteacher of my favourite school told me my child has a place. Should I celebrate?

While their enthusiasm is lovely, unfortunately, headteachers don't decide who gets a place. Admission authorities, which are usually your local council, allocate places based on the school's admissions criteria. It's best to wait for the official letter from the authority before popping the party balloons.

Q: I'm worried about the appeals process. What steps should I take?

The appeals process can seem daunting but it's quite manageable...

• First, contact your local authority – they'll have specific guidelines and forms for your area.
   
• Then put together your arguments. It is important to plan this out. For example, does your child have a specific need or disability that the allocated school may not be able to provide for? Do you have a sibling at the desired school? Is the allocated school too difficult for you to reach each day? Are there other reasons such as friendships which might mean your child would struggle going to a different school? 
   
• For any kind of meeting like this, preparation is key, so jot down each point and have a supporting argument as to why your preferred school is a better option for your child. 
   
• Try to keep to facts rather than just emotions (although these are also important too!). 

Q: What kind of evidence can strengthen my appeal?

Gather documents that support your case. This could include academic records, healthcare plans, or letters from current nursery teachers highlighting your child's specific needs and how your preferred school is best equipped to meet them. It can also be worth asking for some advice from the primary school directly – they may want to support you and may be able to advise on ways to strengthen your case to help secure a place at their school.

Q: Are there any resources available to help me through the appeal?

Definitely! You can access information from the following places:

• The Department for Education (DfE): The DfE website offers a wealth of information on the appeals process. 
• TheSchoolRun.com provides free templates for primary-school appeals and expert advice and information. 
• Citizen's Advice is another great resource – they offer impartial guidance throughout the appeals process.

Q: Any final words of advice for parents considering an appeal?

Remember, the most important thing is your child's education. If you have genuine concerns about the initial placement, the appeals process exists to give you a voice. 

Gather your evidence, present your case clearly and be confident in advocating for your child's needs. If the panel is not successful, this could be for many reasons, such as the school simply being oversubscribed and unable to take any more children. 

If this is the case, you can still ask if the school has a waiting list or research other schools who may be able to offer similar provision in your area.

The bottom line: advocating for your child's education

The decision of where your child goes to primary school can feel monumental, and appealing an admissions decision is daunting, but with the right preparation and resources, you can effectively advocate for your child's educational needs. 

Although success is not guaranteed, you can be confident you did everything within your control to get a place for your child. 

And be reassured that, with such a determined and caring caregiver, your child will be in the best position to thrive in any environment! 

Matt Revill is a primary school headteacher with over 20 years experience of working in schools. He has worked in a range of settings and currently works within a multi-academy trust of 14 schools. In his free time, he enjoys reading, computing, holidaying and spending time with his family and friends. Matt has a son who is currently working his way through A-levels at college.