I filled out my local school's application form and returned it to to them before the deadline in November 2002. (The school is 300 yards away from home BTW, and half the children arrive by car). In January this year the education authority wrote to me saying they weren't happy with the proof of address I'd given them, could I provide more evidence. I did so, posted it, but by end Feb/early March I still hadn't heard anything.
Phoned and they'd never received it. Took more copies of bills etc to the head office and handed it in. Heard nothing. Phoned again and apparently they wanted proof of my SON'S residence at our address. I reasoned that as I'd proved that my partner and I lived there, where was our son likely to be living?
They then wanted a particular letter from Child Benefit that I hadn't yet received, but finally I did get it with 1 day to spare before the admission letter were going to be issued. I took it to the head office and handed it in FAO the person dealing with my application.
This week is 3 weeks after the admission letter were due to go out, I've heard nothing so I phoned. Apparently they had no record of my application and therefore my son's name isn't on the school list for September. The reception class is now full.
Have spoke to a manager today, she's "going to look into it" and look for the papers "in the unlikely places". What hope do I have that my son is going to get an education at all? Has anyone else been in this position, who do I get to sort it out if the papers can't be found? Do I have any redress at all?