Secondary school appeal Stage 2

[Priyavk1]

Hi there

We have our Stage 2 grammar school appeal tomorrow and would be grateful for any tips/advice
Our DC has qualified and appeal is based on oversubscribed school
We live less than 2.5miles from the school.

We have close friends going and in previous years first cousins going
I am aware our case isn't strong but want to give our DC a chance so would be grateful for any advice
Our evidence has been submitted and included letters from school/friend/Uncle etc
Many thanks

Knowing other people attending the school is irrelevant. Your grounds for appeal need to be that the school offers something whose value to your son outweighs the disadvantage to the school of squeezing in an extra pupil. That might be subjects not offered at the school you've been allocated, or something like that. Hopefully you have something like that in your submitted evidence, and that's what you should focus on.

Indeed - friendship groups, letters from friends and family aren't really relevant, as it will be expected that all children will make new friends at secondary and many children go to new schools without knowing anyone.

What are the subjects, specialisms, clubs etc that the school can offer that are of benefit to your child and that mean the detriment to the school of taking another pupil is lower than the detriment to her of not attending?

Thank you so yes we have highlighted his sporting skills (football/karate/swimming) and the preferred school relevant facilities etc

Further the school also seems to offer bespoke programme on psychology of learning for Year 7. Not on offer in allocated school. This is something we are very keen on

I am fully aware that our case is weak but can only present what we know and have.
We will keep our fingers crossed for the waiting list, 13 for the school we are appealing for.

Thank you for your comments and advice

Instead of saying you are keen on a program offered, it might be stronger to explain why you think it would benefit your DC specifically.

Remember the appeal is not about how much you like the school but about "prejudice" - is your DD actually placed at a disadvantage by not attending this school?