Applying for reception 2015 - worth doing a statement?

[SayCoolNowSayWhip]

Hi all,

Would really appreciate some advice. Am applying for schools for DD who will start in September 2015, and the school we really want her to go to, we're not in catchment for. Is it worth putting additional reasons in the box on the online application? Started doing a personal statement as if I were applying for a job, but my SIL says not to bother as they never read them.

Is it worth doing it?

Thanks for all advice.

Didn't make any difference for us. In fact we didn't get any of the 3 on our list. Went on waiting list for school we wanted and luckily got places before term started. However, what have you got to lose? Might as well do it so you can know you did all you can

Not unless you have a genuine reason to need a particular school ie. SEN, medical or physical needs.

It is based on the published admission criteria. It will be read, but only considered if it demonstrates something relevant to those criteria - e.g. that your child is a looked after child etc

no.
The most important thing is put the schools on order according to your preference. Make sure at least one school on the list is actually possible to get into.

Some people only put the school they want in the mistaken belief that they will get given it, they don't.
The process is a computer generated one. It applies the rules impartially. It doesn't take into account anything you write.

The written part is only really relevant is you have medical/sen needs etc. Although I have heard is that it is useful in appeal.

As others have said it will be read. However, unless your statement includes some relevant information that would place your DC in a higher category when it comes to allocations, it will not make a difference o your application and its outcome.

Just to support what others have said. Entry is based on the published admission criteria. They cannot make subjective judgements based on the strength of your reasons for wanting a particular school. Unless you have information which will move your child into a higher admissions category you might as well leave this box blank. It won't make any difference.