Brackenboo oversubscription

[Brackenboo]

After reallocation we are 2nd on the waiting list and trying to decide whether its worth appealing.

We have his mock and predicted SATS results. His teacher has ranked him at GD for Maths but expected for the other two, although has mentioned in an email that he is very close to GD for reading. At the end of y5 he was GD for Maths and reading but expected for writing. He is left handed and there has always been a focus on his handwriting.

The only other pieces of information they have provided is that he plays for the school football team and he is interested in Maths and Science. It's a standard form they have completed. I'm going to email again and ask for something from the pastoral team as he was receiving some sessions based around anxiety at the time.

He has qualified but I don't know whether we have a strong enough case to appeal. The reasons for wanting the school are based around the excellent pastoral care his sister has received and that we feel he will benefit from being at the same school. They have excellent sports facilities.

Any advice?

[ToadMum]

Position 1 successfully appealing would leave you still waiting for two to drop out before you ate offered a waiting list place, if you either didn't appeal, or did and were not successful. In that same situation, e erh successful appeal from below you on the waiting list knocks you back by another place. I would leave your appeal application in, personally, unless you actively decide to go with your current offer regardless.

[Etienne]

His teacher has ranked him at GD for Maths but expected for the other two

I don't think that will help.

I start to worry when I see mention of a "standard form". If it's an oversubscription appeal, then ideally any support should try to answer the question "Why this particular school?".
I can see the possible relevance of football if he is in the England junior football squad and if the school being appealed for excels at football!

he is interested in Maths and Science

Might be useful if the school is noted for the strength of its maths and science. I wonder what they used to specialise in (when there were specialisms - Q&As, C34)?

Otherwise I think the focus would best be on the pastoral side - but you do need evidence of his anxiety.
With the experience of one child at the school, you could argue that you know it offers the caring environment he needs.
Does he have friends, as well as his sister, who will be attending?

trying to decide whether its worth appealing

I think you should keep your options open and submit an appeal.

Even if the odds are against you, appeals can be unpredictable.

[Brackenboo]

Thanks both. I agree what the school have provided isn't overly going to help. I've gone back to ask if anything can be provided from the Nurture team.

We will focus on our reasons in the oversubscription area.

[Brackenboo]

We've got a space from the waiting list, so luckily won't have to go through an appeal. Thanks for all the advice offered

[Etienne]

Delighted to hear the news, Brackenboo.
Thanks so much for letting us know.

Many congratulations!

[mad?]

Congratulations Brackenboo - really glad to hear this