questions to ask LEA at appeal hearing-help needed please.

[floss99]

Hello,i would like some advice please about the type of questions i can ask the LEA at our appeal hearing.These are the questions that i have in mind-but shorter versions.Just wondered if it is ok to ask these:
1)could you clarify the evidence in your report that suggests that there is prejudice to efficient education is more pupils are admitted?

2)how are catchment areas calculated?

3. what were the percentages for ks2 results in 2011? ( i have already researched this info myself)

Thanks

First two I think are fine but 3rd - not sure as I can't see that it would strengthen your appeal. But, I am not an expert - admissions/panelchair and bridge will be able to tell you more.

I always ask for the last three years KS2 results, so that the panel can see what the trend of results is. If they have much larger numbers at the top of the school (which is quite possible) and the results are good then it brings into question part of the admission authority case around more pupils will reduce the effectiveness of the education.
The panel will also be asking about the size of the classrooms, which either is a help to you if they are large or negative to your case if they are small. Also why were any admitted above PAN in other year groups.
The other area I would concentrate on is whether the admission arrangements have been correctly administered. So were all the places allocated, did they all accept the places. If not when were the places declined and when was the place reallocated and under what admission criteria category. You are looking to see whether the places were given to the right people, so before hand you need to consider whether there is any possibility they put you in the wrong admission category or whether the distance is wrong.

Thanks admission for your invaluable advice.I have got more questions other than the 3 that i posted and was unsure about.Our appeal is next week and i thought that i had considered every angle in my questions but your reply has given me food for thought.Thanks once again!