what more canI do?

[natalie]

I have just recently sent back my appeals form to my local council (Trafford) for a school I wish my son to go to, but is not in our catchment area! We were allocated a place at an all boys school over double the distance from the prefered school, my son wishes to attend a mixed school and is'nt at all fazed by the prospect of going it alone (all his mates are going to the all boys) The prefered school is a specialist sports college which is what appeals most to my son, who has been scouted for his football and is a keen sportsman! The school itself is not too far away, but is oversubscribed, I have been told that appeals will still go on proximity from the school and not the childs personal achievements! I there any advice out there for a mum who wants to do right my her child?

[Rover]

Natalie,
As Etienne has said on numerous occasions an appeal is the chance for you to appeal for the school regardless of how the places are allocated. Just get your point across. You will have done your best.

[Etienne]

I have been told that appeals will still go on proximity

They can give weight to whatever they choose, but

the panel must consider whether the appellant’s grounds for the child to be admitted outweigh any prejudice to the school. The panel must take into account the appellant’s reasons for expressing a preference for the particular school (e.g. why they want that school in particular and what it can offer the child that others cannot). [Appeals Code of Practice]

Be sure to include plenty of evidence of your son's sporting ability, and, if possible, letters from teachers/coaches stating that this particular school with its specialist status would be ideal for him.

[natalie]

yes was thinking of getting some personal references from his trainers, I have also spoke to our head teacher who has given his full support to our appeal, Ive been told we can appeal an appeal, I have not looked into this yet as preparing for this seems to be taking over!
Thanks for the replies! Its all re-assuring!!

[Etienne]

Ive been told we can appeal an appeal

Not sure I understand .......

The appeal is meant to bring the whole process to an end.

You can complain to the ombudsman if there has been a procedural fault so serious as to cause an injustice. See the Q&As, section D.

Or a judicial review might be possible if you're rich enough .....