The demand for places at good and outstanding schools continues to outstrip supply in both primary and secondary schools. Whilst some reports suggest peak numbers for primary schools will soon be reached, pressure on secondary places is consistently projected to increase for at least the next five years. This mismatch between supply and demand will inevitably lead to more appeals.

Whilst the number of appeals lodged remained static year on year between 2016-17 and 2017-18, the trend for appeals heard in secondary school has risen for the third year in a row.

With appeals more likely, schools need to ensure their prejudice statement is up-to-date and fit for purpose. In addition, attendees will discuss whether their schools are effectively informing and deterring unsubstantiated cases to avoid the financial and administrative costs of preparing for and attending a panel hearing.

This one day event will enable attendees to build a watertight school case, minimise appeals and conduct hearings efficiently, and delegates may expect:
• Take part in the ever-popular live mock appeals and learn how to avoid costly and time-consuming pitfalls – primary and secondary sessions available
• Learn how to build a strong school case, backed up by a watertight prejudice statement
• Hear a broad range of perspectives on managing the appeals process effectively
• Learn how to reduce the number of appeals and queries through an effective online strategy
• Prepare for parental legal representation and be ready for the main angles of challenge

This event is for all phases of education with a view that better relationships can be built between schools to improve the student journey, throughout their school life.