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Secondary education

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Moved since 1st allocation - what do we do?

7 replies

Cinnamonspider · 22/04/2025 19:34

We moved on allocation day and were offered a school based on our old address which we didn't put down on our list so I haven't accepted as we're not in catchment for it now, its about 30/40 mins away by car. It's also a school where none of my DS friends are going to and as he has SENco support for sensory and social issues, it's out of the question for him to go somewhere where he doesnt know anyone.
The school we are in catchment for was over subscribed, but I've put it as our first choice for the next round of allocations.

I emailed LA today to confirm change of address for second round and they said it was upto date however, if we didn't get our 1st choice, the original place is still available.
What do I do if I don't get 1st choice and don't accept the original?! Will they still place us at the next available school?

I'm guessing if we don't accept any place then they have done their job and it's on us, but do the LA have a responsibility to allocate a place that's suitable in terms if getting there independently? He's not mature enough to get from our house to original offer school alone, it's an 1hr 40min each way by walking/bus which is completely impractical imo!

Any advice was be great, thank you!

OP posts:
PlanetOtter · 22/04/2025 21:26

You should look at all the schools you can sensibly get him to, not just your preferred one.

One of these might have a spot open if they’re under subscribed, so nab that. Then go on the waitlist for any other close ones you prefer.

ArseInTheCoOpWindow · 22/04/2025 21:27

Does he have an EHCP?

LIZS · 22/04/2025 21:40

Ask if any closer schools have a space or you can go on waiting list for.

Cinnamonspider · 23/04/2025 07:39

ArseInTheCoOpWindow · 22/04/2025 21:27

Does he have an EHCP?

No, no EHCP.

OP posts:
Cinnamonspider · 23/04/2025 07:40

PlanetOtter · 22/04/2025 21:26

You should look at all the schools you can sensibly get him to, not just your preferred one.

One of these might have a spot open if they’re under subscribed, so nab that. Then go on the waitlist for any other close ones you prefer.

There are 2 within 5 min car journey from us, it's a bit of a trek but do able eventually which I have put down.

OP posts:
prh47bridge · 23/04/2025 08:26

The LA has already fulfilled its legal responsibilities by offering you a place. The fact you consider that place to be unsuitable is irrelevant. If you don't get the school you want and don't accept the offer that has been made, your choices are to home educate, find a school with places available or send your son to an independent school (if there is a suitable one that you can afford).

Cinnamonspider · 23/04/2025 11:41

prh47bridge · 23/04/2025 08:26

The LA has already fulfilled its legal responsibilities by offering you a place. The fact you consider that place to be unsuitable is irrelevant. If you don't get the school you want and don't accept the offer that has been made, your choices are to home educate, find a school with places available or send your son to an independent school (if there is a suitable one that you can afford).

I thought that was the case, thank you!

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