School encouraging appeals- why?

[natto]

My son didn't get his first choice primary school, where he attends the nursery. We're probably just going to accept the offered place at our second choice school, our 'nearest' school but it's the same distance as the first choice and also seems decent.

But the first choice school has already sent us a letter encouraging us to appeal, and now the nursery teacher has been asking all the parents who didn't get places to make an appointment to see the head about appealing.

I was just wondering if anyone knows why the school are so keen for us to appeal? Surely they are full and don't want to take additional children? Obviously I could ask the head myself, but would have to make an appointment...

Maybe it is to make up another class and recruit/keep an extra teacher ? Don't think the head's opinion comes into it though

Suppose it could be, they did have to take 10 extra children last year as they all won their appeal (something to do with an LEA error) so there is currently an extra R/Y1 class because of this. But I doubt the same error would be made this year, not sure what grounds there could be for appeal, will see if any other parents can shed some light...

This is odd. Headteachers are supposed to remain neutral in the appeals process and it isn't really for them to tout for appeals (or discourage people from appealing). I suspect it's something to do with wanting to increase numbers, to expand the school, or something like that. Or it may be some sort of campaign about the admissions criteria not automatically giving a place to children in the nursery.

Ask at the school gate or listen for local gossip (never thought I'd hear myself hear that)!

Sorry to come at this late - been away - but what exactly does the letter from the head say?
The head teacher is treading a very fine line between being helpful in saying what parents can do and in effect suggesting that you will get a place at the school. If it is verging towards the latter then I would definitely appeal as the panel will have no alternate to admit if the head has given parents a reasonable expectation that they will get a place at the school. Having some kind of interview with the head to discuss it is just adding to that suggestion of overstepping the line.
Heads are not supposed to get involved but some heads are mavericks and panelmember may be right they are simply looking to grab as many pupils as possible by any means. I suppose how for you take it is dependant on how much you want the school place, but you will be miffed if others get in on appeal when you decided to not bother.

We're happy now with the school we've been allocated so are definitely not appealling ourselves, would rather not send my son to an overcrowded school (as it would be if they're accepting extra children all the time). But will let you know how it all pans out...