Advice for my appeal hearing please

[MimiSam]

Hi. Is the LA representative representing the LA or the school itself? Part of my case is that the school I am appealing for gave misleading information about the previous years' 'cut off point for distance' during the application process and that this disadvantaged us...I want to raise it at the appeal hearing, but need to be sure who I am talking to...
Also, does anyone know who reads the CAF (common application form) ? Parents are asked to give reasons for each of their four preferences, but I am not sure who sees these nor what use, if any, they make of the information parents give. Thanks.

In my experience at Secondary it is normally the Head. If you ask the clerk they will know - they should also put it in your appointment letter.

Re the CAF, I don't know if the info is passed on to the schools. You could ask the LEA.

Sorry I think I misread it. The LA rep will represent the school and give the schools case but they are still the LA rep.

Just thinking about the CAF notes. I have seen the LEA respond to them at primary appeals but often schools have supplementary forms or a different process for social/medical issues.

It depends if it is an LA school or an academy. Just had ours for academy there were 3 there head, dep head and governor.

They don't take any notice of the reasons unless you put about a sibling or SEN.

Hmm I thought they were allowed just one rep? With maybe an admin person like the admissions officer to help with the relevant information but not taking part in the proceedings.

Strictly speaking they are representing the admission authority.

I'm intrigued by the suggestion that you were disadvantaged by misleading information about the previous cut off distance. I don't really see how that can help you. An error by the admission authority is only relevant if it cost you a place at this school.

The admission authority will see anything you put on your application form about your reasons for wanting this school. However, unless those reasons show that you should be placed in a higher admissions category they will be ignored. The admission authority is not allowed to make subjective judgements on the strength of your reasons for wanting this school. They must judge objectively using their published admission criteria.