Derbyshire primary school places 2021: What to do if your child doesn't get preferred choice

Email notifications were sent to parents and guardians this morning, informing them which school their children had been allocated and how to appeal if they disagreed with the decision.

According to the Derbyshire County Council website the deadline for lodging an appeal is May 17, with cases to be heard as soon after that as possible.

The type of school will determine who considers the appeal – either the academy trust, local authority or governing body.

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Each year primary schools have to admit eligible pupils on request up to their admissions limit number which takes account of the amount of accommodation available.

Legally, no more than 30 children should be taught by a single teacher in infant classes and this can only change in exceptional circumstances.

A child may therefore be refused a place if their admission breaches the infant class size limit and there are no other measures the authority could take to avoid this without compromising on the quality of education and the efficient use of resources.

Parents who still want to appeal the decision should check the admissions policy of the school – refer to the school or local authority website to view this and ensure that the correct policy has been followed.

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Once an appeal is lodged it must be heard within 40 school days of the appeals deadline.

For information on school admission appeals or help in completing the appeals form, email [email protected]

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