Statutory School Appeals

Could you be a Volunteer Panel Member?

Essex County Council Statutory Appeals Team are currently looking for panel members for both Admission Appeals and Exclusion Appeals.

Appeal Panels are convened to examine cases in which parents wish to contest either the refusal by a school’s Admissions Authority to admit a child, or a Governing Body’s decision to permanently exclude a child.

Essex County Council Statutory Appeals Team are currently looking for panel members for both Admission Appeals and Exclusion Appeals. Each case is heard by 3 panel members, including one who is trained to act as a chairperson. A trained clerk is also present and gives advice on the law and regulations to make sure panel members follow the right procedures.

Do you have the ability to listen, to be impartial without being swayed by emotion, can appreciate both sides of an argument and are able to make reasoned decisions, you may be just the person we are looking for.

Can you spare a few days or more each year to participate in this rewarding and interesting task?

Previous specialist knowledge of this field is not essential, we are looking for people who have time to consider the issues properly. We offer full training and will reimburse travel and subsistence expenses, although at present Appeal Hearings take place via Zoom.

Membership of Appeal Panels is constituted in accordance with the School Standards and Framework Act 1998, and some people may not be eligible to serve. 

If you would like further information please contact Ann Coldicott on 0333 013 4566 or email StatutoryAppeals@essex.gov.uk