Independent Appeal Panel member opportunity

We are seeking volunteers to take part in Independent Appeal Panels.

Independent Appeal Panels hear school admission appeals.

Being a panel member can be a rewarding experience for those who wish to support their community. You do not need previous experience.

What a school admission appeal is

Admission authorities may refuse a child a place at their preferred school. If so, parents or guardians have the right to appeal against this decision.

Appeals from parents/guardians must be set out in writing. The response from the admission authority must also be set out in writing.

These written case papers are circulated ahead of an appeal hearing.

The parents/guardians and the admission authority are invited to attend an appeal hearing. At the appeal hearing they can both put their case to the Independent Appeal Panel, in person.

The role of an Independent Appeal Panel member

Your role as an Independent Appeal Panel member would be to:

• Read the case papers in advance of the hearing
• Actively take part in the appeal hearing process
• Work with the other panel members in determining whether to uphold or dismiss the appeal

As a panel member you must ensure that parents/guardians and schools:

• Have had a fair and independent hearing
• Have had every opportunity to put their case forward
• Have had the points they have made carefully considered by an independent panel

Panel member responsibilities

As a panel member, you should:

• Be interested in education
• Have excellent listening and communication skills
• Have the ability to put people at ease
• Be able to make balanced decisions  
• Be sensitive to the concerns of parents/guardians and to the pressures on local schools
• Enjoy working with other panel members
• Be able to assess evidence
• Be able to actively take part in the hearing and panel deliberation processes  

Most appeals are online via Microsoft Teams. You will need suitable IT equipment. 

We will provide you with training on the legal framework of the appeal process and local procedures.

Payment

Service is voluntary.

We will pay you out of pocket expenses.

How to apply

To request an application form or for more information, contact us at schoolappeals@norfolk.gov.uk

Read our privacy notice to find out how we use your personal information.