|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Schools Minister to be lobbied about schools appeals changes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Morley Borough Independent Councillors are to lobby Schools Secretary Ed Balls following changes to school appeals rules which will prevent Councillors speaking at hearings involving local parents. The new rules, which the Government claims will mean a smoother operation of the schools appeal process, stops Councillors from their traditional roles of representing parents at appeal hearings. Councillor Robert Finnigan said "Many parents have asked me to support their schools appeals after their child has been refused a place at a local school. I have attended dozens of hearings to speak up for my constituents. |
|
Parents are often nervous and worried about this formal process and a Councillor can help them through this challenging and stressful time." Morley Borough Independent Councillors have previously set up teams of Councillors to represent parents at appeals in the past and spoke at over 30 appeals in 2003 when large numbers of parents were refused school places at any of the three Morley high schools.Councillor Finnigan said "I have written to Ed Balls to ask for him to reconsider this decision. If parents choose to be represented by a local Councillor then their request should be accepted. The Government has got this wrong and need to u turn on this unwelcome approach." A useful website containing advice on dealing with a School Appeal can be found by clicking here
|
|
