Questions for Reception Appeal

[Vinsanto]

Hi all. We have our appeal for a Reception class space on Monday. I don't mind admitting I feel sick to my stomach at the thought of it.

From what I can gather it is NOT an Infant Size Class Appeal.

I'm wondering if anybody can give me an idea of questions I can ask the authority to undermine their argument and, conversely, what I can expect to be asked.

Any help most gratefully received! X

If it is not an infant class size appeal then you have a better chance at appeal as the appeal becomes about the reasons why you want a place at the school and the strength of that argument.
In part 1, the school has to explain why they believe that they cannot admit any more pupils.The guidance is clear that they have to present a case which is more than just that they have reached the PAN for the year group. That means they will probably talk about the small classrooms, the high level of special needs in the school, the fact that every extra pupil reduces the amount of time that the teacher can spend with each pupil etc. This is all to ensure that they convince the panel that there reasons to say that the school have made their case to not admit more pupils. Do not expect to convince the panel to say that the school have not made their case at the end of part 1, because this does not happen that often. What you need to do is try and reduce the strength of the school's case, so that a strong case from you will mean that the panel does agree with you and allows the appeal. To be honest it is difficult to say what questions to ask without seeing what they have put down in their appeal document. I assume that you have had that document by now.
In part 2, you need to give the panel the strongest possible case to agree with you to admit. You need to be talking about the preferred school and not the on you have been allocated. The other important consideration to remember is that the panel will only ask questions of you to ensure that they are clear about things. If you present a strong, well thought out argument for admission, it is possible that the panel does not have any questions. It does not mean that your appeal will be turned down, though I accept that it is easy to think that.
The most important tip I can give you is go to the appeal well prepared. In part 2 you will be given the opportunity to state your case. I would write it down so it can be read out. It does not matter if it is more or less what is in your appeal document, it is you emphasising the reasons to admit.By writing it down you can continue when you get upset - yes it is perfectly acceptable to be upset, the panel does understand this is a massive step you are taking in appealing. It also means that when you get to the end that you stop talking and let them ask questions, rather than go on wittering about all sorts of things that are irrelevant.
The other thing to remember is that no matter the outcome, you have done everything possible that you can do.

Thank you Admission. This is really useful. I doubt they can use the Special Needs argument as the inspection reports that the number of SEN pupils is significantly lower than the national average. You never know though!

It's times like this, oddly, that I wish it was a paper appeal as I can (and have) written a good letter with all the supporting paperwork but I am absolutely rubbish at arguing my point succinctly - especially when stressed and emotional. Thanks for your help.