Appeal paper - I need advice on how to set it out please

[sandyballs]

I've just added this question to an older thread of mine but thought I'd start a new one instead.

I've read loads on the content of the appeal paper and what should/shouldn't be included but I'm a bit stumped at the actual setting out, not sure if I'm being particularly thick here. I've googled for examples but found nothing. Please help . I've been putting this off and suddenly realised it needs to be submitted on Monday. I've got tons of bullet points and rough notes but need structure!

It is entirely up to you. A set of bullet points would be fine. An essay would be equally acceptable. Just make sure that you state all the important points of your case. Concentrate on the reasons your child will be disadvantaged if not admitted to this school. You can leave anything about weaknesses in the LA's case for the hearing.

Agree with PRH. Personally I prefer as a panel member to see it as bullet points as it is easier to digest and to pick up on the salient points.
If you start an essay it tends to go off at tangents and off the points that are important.

Whilst there might be a date for submission by next Monday, that is the date that guarantees you the appeal will be along with all others that have also submitted by that date. You can submit later and the appeal still has to take place, it is not a cut off date after which you cannot appeal.

Thanks for replies, I'm just doing it now! Talk about leave it to the last minute! Part of me thinks it's a waste of time as the vast majority of appeals fail, but nothing to lose. At least I will feel as though I have done everything I could.

One other quick question, can I just submit the appeal form without evidence (eg head teacher, etc), and bring the evidence to the appeal or submit it later?

You are allowed to submit further evidence after you have sent in your form. You can even bring new evidence to the hearing but I wouldn't recommend it. If you bring documentary evidence to the hearing that the panel and LA has not seen before you may find that your appeal is adjourned to a later date to allow them to digest the new information.

So yes, you can submit the appeal form without evidence and send in your evidence later.

I am intrigued by the reference to "head teacher". What are you expecting to get from them?

The school they didn't get and we want is very sporty, that is their specialism, or one of them. The school they doesn't seem particularly interested in sport, just the bare minimum they have to do. They don't have teams competing against other schools for example.

Both my DD's love sport and are very good at it - they have represented their primary school in athletics, basketball, netball, swimming, cross country and this is going to form a large part of my appeal so I thought a note from the head confirming that they are both picked for every single sporting event, and often win would give a bit of weight to the appeal.

What do you think? Their guide leader told me she had supported parents during appeals by writing a note for them but i didn't ask her in what context? I can't think how she could help really.

If the note from the head simply states facts I think it may help. If it actually supports your appeal (by, for example, saying that your children's sporting ability means they need to go to the appeal school) the panel may feel they have to ignore it. If your daughters take part in any organised sports outside school I would get evidence of that as well.

FABULOUS NEWS - just got a phone call from our 1st choice school to say they are both in ..... so happy. Can chuck appeal papers in the bin . My girls will be so happy tonight.