Introduction
If your child has not been offered a place at your preferred school, you have the right to appeal. Your school appeal statement is your chance to explain why your child should be given a place, and this guide will help you write it.
Understand the reason for refusal
Before you write your appeal statement, it is important to understand why your child was refused a place.
Common reasons include the school being full (oversubscribed) or your child not meeting the school’s admission criteria. Knowing the reason for refusal will help you tailor your appeal and explain why your child should still be offered a place.
Structure your statement
Use a clear structure for your appeal statement, with headings and bullet points. It is best to type it if you can. If you have evidence, include it in an appendix at the end and refer to it in your statement.
Start by giving your child’s name, date of birth (DOB), and the name of the school you are appealing for.
Here is an example layout you can follow:
A. Introduction
Appeal for admission to: [Name of school]
Child’s name and date of birth: [Child’s full name and DOB]
Briefly explain why you are appealing.
B. Your Reasons
Explain why this school is the best place for your child. Remember, the panel do not know your child, so include all relevant information.
You can also include any personal or medical circumstances and how these affect your child’s wellbeing or education.
C. Address the Admissions Criteria
If you think the admissions criteria were not applied correctly, explain why.
If your child meets the criteria but was not offered a place, include evidence to support this.
D. Conclusion
Summarise your appeal statement and politely request the panel reconsider your appeal.
Attach evidence
Include copies of any evidence that supports your appeal. This could be things like:
- Medical or Professional reports
- Bus timetables or maps
- Letters from school staff or support workers
- Quotes from school reports or OFSTED
Make sure you refer to each piece of evidence in your appeal statement so the panel can easily understand how it supports your case.
Submit your appeal statement on time
Check the deadline for sending in your evidence, and make sure you submit your statement and any supporting documents before that date.
Tips for writing your appeal statement:
- Be detailed and specific
- Focus on your child’s needs
- Keep it clear and concise
- Proofread the document before you send it
More information
Somerset Council’s Appeal an in-year school admission refusal page explains what to do if your child is refused a place at a school and how to appeal that decision. It outlines when you can appeal, how to submit an appeal form, what information you must include, and the deadlines you need to follow. It also explains what happens during the appeal process, including how the Independent Appeal Panel works and what to expect before and after the hearing.