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Admissions - reason for preference does it make a difference?

6 replies

PinkOlives · 11/01/2011 21:06

Hi so sorry if others have posted this before, my head has been in the sand on this one. So Primary school admissions, does it make a difference if you put reason for preference on the form and if so what do you put??

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bonmot · 11/01/2011 21:26

I am wondering exactly the same thing, if the 'reasons for preference' bit is optional then how does what you write in this bit affect the success or otherwise of your applicaton to any particular school? Anyone have any knowledge?

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prh47bridge · 11/01/2011 21:51

It has no effect whatsoever. The admissions process does not involve making subjective judgements about whether one parent's reasons are better than anothers.

The only time I would put anything in that box is if you are giving evidence that moves your child into a higher admission category (e.g. a special medical or social need) and there is nowhere else on the form for this information. Otherwise I would advocate leaving it blank. It won't help you get your child into your preferred school and it could come back to bite you if you end up appealing for another school.

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PinkOlives · 11/01/2011 22:16

Oh really thats very interesting to know, it actually says for example religious, philisophical or other reasons? They shouldnt ask then! I did fill it in for one school but havent submitted yet, I hadnt considered the appeals process..
Im actually finding it hard to pick 6 ok schools!

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bonmot · 11/01/2011 22:33

thanks bridge, v useful

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prh47bridge · 12/01/2011 00:47

PinkOlives - If they are specifically asking about that it may mean that, should you choose faith schools but fail to get in, they will try to find a faith school for you. However, if, for example, you've said you want a faith school but end up appealing for a non-faith school, the appeal panel will see what you put on the form and it may damage your case.

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PinkOlives · 12/01/2011 13:12

ok - it was just an example they gave but im not looking for a faith school but thought to mention that on my first choice that the school is within close proximity, i suppose thats not really relevant. You have raised a good point with the appeals process though and i'm sure i'll be needing it around here! thank you