Centralised admissions
From a parent’s perspective
• New system, the LA must send the decision
letter.
• They approach school, LA or apply online,
BUT
• System must not create delays, especially if a
space is available.
• Central advice for parents on available places
in the area; minimise ‘children missing
education’ issues.
Possible scenarios
Parent goes to school with spaces
• Fill in form
• School confirms space to LA and parent
• Form faxed to LA, offer letter despatched
• Parent and school immediately organise start date.
Parent goes to full school
• Fill in form, use preferences wisely
• Issue letter that confirms school’s (refusal) advice and offers one
of other preferences or allocates a place
• Waiting lists and possible appeals may follow
Possible scenarios (2)
Parent contacts LA and applies online or on
issued paper form
• Complete application including up to three preferences
• The LA discusses application with schools (‘equal preference’).
Foundation and Aided schools advise the availability of places.
• Possible concerns if pupil has complex needs as pupil might be
given a start date before full consideration of needs takes place.
However offer of a place must not be unduly delayed.
• Decision issued including right of appeal/waiting lists etc.
From 2010 discussions may need to take place with
neighbouring LAs.
Possible scenarios (3)
Family does not move house, falls out with current school and
wants a change of school.
– Approach to LA, refer back for a proper conversation with current
school????
– Desirability of any move
– The law supports the parent’s position (not the child’s)
Family does not move house, a school change is the right next
step.
– Managed move, inclusion service involvement, local inclusion panel
Pupil is reintegrating from EOTAS
– The right place (school and pupil perspective)
Our current perceptions
• Approximately 6000 in year admissions
• Consistent throughout the year but with spikes
following each holiday (especially in January)
• A significant proportion of In-Year Admissions are
straightforward
• In Year Fair Access protocol needs updating for
new statutory requirements
• Regular polling of schools will help…not much!!!!