Appeals Process

Choosing your child's primary or secondary school can be a difficult decision for you to make. The law does not give you a choice of school but it allows you to "express a preference". In Cheshire West and Chester most parents and carers get a place for their child at the school they want. However, occasionally demand is higher than there are places available; therefore, some parents are refused a place for their child. If this happens, you have a legal right of appeal.

You may appeal for each school at which a place has been refused. Each appeal will be considered at separate hearings and you will need a separate appeal application form for each school and each child.

If you decide to appeal you are strongly advised to seek a place at an alternative school in case your appeal is unsuccessful. Securing a place at an alternative school will not prejudice your right of appeal for any other school.

If you have been unsuccessful in gaining a place at an Aided / Foundation School or Academy, you will need to contact them direct to obtain an appeal form.

• Download Appeal Form (Word, 175KB) for Community and Voluntary Controlled Schools only.

Further advice on the appeals process is available on the Department for Education website.