Appeals procedure
APPEALS PRODEDUREAppealing Secondary Transfer Decisions (Year 6 to Year 7)
In cases where an application for admission is not successful, parents or guardians may decide to challenge the decision made by the governors. All appeals are heard by an Independent Appeal Panel (IAP), which is made up of three members who are not affiliated with the school and make impartial decisions. An Independent Appeal Clerk will also be present to ensure that a precise record of the proceedings is kept.
The appeal hearings are conducted on school grounds. Parents or guardians will have the opportunity to question the governors’ representative, typically the Head Teacher, and to present their case to the IAP.
Parents or guardians will be given a minimum of 10 school days’ notice before their appeal hearing. After all appeals have been heard, the appeal clerk will issue the decision letters within five school days, when possible.
The Governors may decline a student’s application for admission to the school under certain conditions :
- The child’s admission would not align with the school’s established admission criteria.
- In the opinion of the Governing Body, admitting the child would disrupt the smooth operation of the educational process or the efficient management of resources.
- The child has a special educational needs statement that designates a different school, not the Moonstone Academy.
Year 7 Secondary Transfer Appeals
If an applicant is not successful in the Year 7 Secondary Transfer process, they should submit their appeal on National Offers Day. Parents or guardians will have at least 20 school days to prepare and submit their written appeal. These appeals are usually heard in May each year.
As of April 12th, 2024, the window for appeals regarding Year 7 Secondary Transfer for September 2024 entry has closed.
In-Year Appeals (Years 7 to 11)
For In-Year admissions, once any required tests are taken and the results are communicated to parents, the appeal must be heard within 30 school days from the date the appeal is lodged.
Year 12 Appeals (Sixth Form)
Since GCSE results are typically released in August, Year 12 appeals are typically considered in September.
“At Moonstone Academy, we are dedicated to providing exceptional support to ensure our students have the opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive and reach their full potential, both academically and in the broader community.”