Waiting Lists

[dollypops]

We didn't get the school we wanted - we got third choice and now I've made sure my ds is on waiting list for first two choices but have been told by both Brent and Kensington and Chelsea that they can't let us know where he is on these lists until 28th April/ 7th May respectively. It seems that other people already know where they are on their list and I just wondered if this differed from borough to borough? Also when we phoned Barlby (the primary we really want) they said that they don't even hold the list it goes through the LEA so is it just the LEA I should keep contacting or the school as well as the school were clear they knew nothing. Feel like there is nothing to do at the moment until I know where he is on lists which is actually q. distressing as well....
Any thoughts would be great. Thank you.

The school is right. The waiting list will be held by the LA.

Even when they do tell you your position on the list you need to remember that it is only a snapshot. Someone moving into the area may go on the list ahead of you, so you can go down the list as well as up. All you can really do is try to relax and view it as a bonus if a place comes up. I know that is easier said than done.

The LA is responsible for all offers of places, so you need to make sure that you are on the waiting list with the LA. Nearly all LAs allow a time period, two weeks typically, for parents to accept or decline places, during whch there will be no movement of places. After that time period all those on the waiting list will be put in admission order criteria and places filled as and when they come up. Because the date of the places being announced differs from LA to LA there will be people who know where they are on the waiting list and also parents who will not even know what school is being offered till the end of April.

prh47bridge and admission - thank you both very much for your replies. Totally understand now and yes, trying to relax and be happy with what we've got in the meantime.... ! Thanks again.