Report to: Executive Member Children’s Services
Date: 27th March 2007
Report of: Director of Children’s Services Report No:
Contact Officer: Val Fogg Tele No: Ext 2092
Report Title: ADMISSIONS ARRANGEMENTS TO PRIMARY & SECONDARY SCHOOLS SEPTEMBER 2008
This report does not contain information which warrants its Non Confidential: consideration in the absence of the press or members of the public
Purpose: To determine the oversubscription criteria for admission into primary and secondary schools in September 2008. To determine the co-ordinated admission arrangements for admission into primary and secondary schools in September 2008.
Recommendations: To approve the oversubscription criteria for admission into primary and secondary schools in September 2008 as revised To approve the co-ordinated admission arrangements for primary and secondary school admissions in September 2008
Decision:
Background Doc(s): School Admissions Code School Standards & Framework Act 1998 as Amended by section 40 of the Education and Inspections Act 2006 Arbitrators Report 1977 Primary & Secondary School Admission Booklets Responses to the Consultation
(for use on Exec Rep) Signed: Leader / Executive Member Monitoring Officer
Date:
Page 1 of 30
Summary: To consider and determine the oversubscription criteria for admission into primary and secondary schools taking into account the School Admissions Code and responses to consultation. To consider and approve the co-ordinated admission arrangements for primary and secondary school admissions in September 2008
Page 2 of 30
Executive Members for Children’s Services and Schools 27th March 2007
ADMISSION ARRANGEMENTS TO PRIMARY & SECONDARY SCHOOLS SEPTEMBER 2008
1. Background Information
1.1 A new code of practice on admissions came into effect on 28th February this year, and applies to admissions at all local authority maintained schools and academies. Admission Authorities must ensure that their determined admission arrangements comply with the mandatory provisions of the Code. Admission authorities must not use practices or criteria which are prohibited by the Code. The object is to make admissions arrangements fairer, "a system where all parents feel they have the same opportunities to apply for the schools they want for their child". The new code gives guidance on what may and must not be used as selection criteria for oversubscription. It also gives guidance- some statutory- on what must be taken into account in setting criteria. The admission arrangements for admission in September 2008 must be determined by 15th April 2007.
1.2 All local authorities are required under the School Standards & Framework Act 1998 to consult on a scheme for each academic year for co-ordinating admission arrangements for all maintained schools within their area. The co-ordinated scheme is intended to simplify the admissions process for parents whilst reducing the likelihood of any child being left without a school place. It also ensures that as far as practical every child living in an area who has applied in the normal admission round receives a single offer of a school place.
2. Bolton Council’s co-ordinated admission arrangements
2.1 The proposed arrangements for co-ordinated admissions to primary and secondary schools set out in Appendix A. Each school year the Local Authority has a duty under the Schools Standards and Framework Act 1998 to formulate a scheme for co-ordinating admission arrangements for all maintained schools (except special schools and nursery schools) within their area.
2.2 The scheme must confirm the method by which the single offer will be determined in the event that offers could be made at two or more schools and how a place will be offered if none of the parent’s preferences can be met. It must also explain how late applications will be treated and the arrangements for applications received outside the normal admission round. The scheme must ensure as far as possible that every child living in the local authority area who has applied in the normal admission round receives a single offer of a school place on the same day. For secondary schools there is a national offer date of 1st March and for primary schools the date must be determined by the LA for their area. The determined scheme must be notified to the Secretary of State.
2.3 The proposed scheme is an updated version of that scheme currently in place. The national offer date however has been agreed as 3rd March 2008 as the 1st March falls on a Saturday.
Page 3 of 30
3. Bolton Council’s current admissions policy
3.1 The current admission policy for the community high schools is set out fully in the Admissions booklets. The policy priority (in brief) as follows: i) children with a statement of educational needs that names the school; ii) children in public care; iii) children with older siblings at the school at the date of admission (excluding VI form); iv) allocation of places based on proximity.
3.2 The way in which proximity is currently measured is not the shortness of the journey to the preferred school but the length of the journey to the nearest alternative school determined by moving outwards from the preferred school in all directions as in a ripple effect. Those pupils with a shorter journey to an alternative school have a lower priority for the preferred school than those who have a longer journey to an alternative school.
3.3 In respect of the voluntary controlled Church of England schools an additional category is included after “sibling” for pupils where there is evidence of an affiliation with the relevant church.
3.4 With regard to Rivington & Blackrod High School (Voluntary Controlled CE), first preferences are considered above second preferences and so on. Priority is given after siblings to those children resident in the Blackrod or Horwich town council areas, followed by exceptional social or medical reasons, followed by up to 20% on the basis of commitment to the Christian faith.
3.5 In respect of Turton High School the policy booklet states:
"It has always been recognised that Turton High School serves the Turton community, therefore after SEN, Public care and sibling link criteria have been applied then pupils living within the urban district of Turton will be considered for places in the school provided it is their first preference. It must be stressed that there is no guarantee that all pupils living within the urban district of Turton be allocated a place at Turton High School if demand exceeds the number of places available. Children who are resident in the parish of North Turton in the Blackburn with Darwen area have a guarantee of a place at Turton High School, provided it is their first preference. This follows an arbitrator's decision in 1977"
4. Setting Fair Oversubscription Criteria
4.1 The guidance on setting fair oversubscription criteria is clear, and once (after consultation) the Council has determined the criteria (by 15 April), Local Authorities, local schools, Admissions Forums and parents can object to the Schools Adjudicator if the admission arrangements contain practices or criteria that they feel do not comply with the law or the mandatory provisions of the Code. Local Authorities and schools can refer admission arrangements where they do not comply with the mandatory provisions of the code or where they do not follow its guidelines
4.2 The prohibitions on unfair criteria set out in Chapter 2 of the new Code include two aspects of the current policy-- namely giving a priority where it is a first choice (e.g. this applies to Rivington & Blackrod HS and Turton HS), and guaranteeing a place (as with Turton HS). Consequently the proposed policy was amended to reflect these changes to the Code. It also sought to introduce a Page 4 of 30
new definition for proximity which could apply equally to all the community and voluntary- controlled schools and would make the policy simpler and clearer for parents to understand when making their preferences for schools.
4.3 In putting forward distance criteria the Authority should take account of the time it will take to travel to school and the availability of public transport. The Authority should explain how distance will be measured, it must use a reliable system that parents can understand, it should ensure that families who are less able to afford property nearest the school are not excluded. It is identified as good practice to give priority to children who could reach one school (but not others) by public transport, or to children who have a disproportionately long journey to another school if denied admission to their nearest school.
5. Consultation for 2008/09 Admissions
5.1 The consultation documents for admissions in 2008, attached as Appendix B, were distributed to all the schools within Bolton Metropolitan Borough at the end of October 2006 and to all neighbouring local authorities in January 2007 and the Dioceses of Salford and Manchester. In addition the Head Teacher and Governing Body of Belmont CP and Turton and Edgworth VC Methodist schools were consulted on the proposals for secondary schools admission arrangements in February 2007.
5.2 In summary, the effect of the proposed changes would be to: a) withdraw preference ranking; b) withdraw the guarantee of a place for residents in north Turton; c) retain current criteria 1 (SEN), criteria 2 (Looked After Children), criteria 3 (sibling link); d) re-define criteria 4 (proximity) as follows: “ To rank all applications on the basis of distance from the preferred school measured by the shortest walking route between home and the school with those living nearest to the preferred school being given priority for a place”.
6. Response to the consultation
6.1 There has been one response from a school on determination of distance criteria, to support retention of shortest walking route as a measure for proximity. There were no comments received from those consulted to the proposed policy for the coordination of admission into primary and secondary schools.
6.2 With regard to the effect of the change in policy for Turton High School, there has been a substantial amount of correspondence to the local authority and to elected Members of the Council. Of these responses, one parent has written to support removal of the guarantee of a place. The Blackburn with Darwen Local Authority and it’s Admission Forum have each responded, along with Turton High School, Belmont CP School, Turton & Edgworth CE Methodist School, North Turton Parish Council, together with a large number of individual letters, e-mails, petitions from parents, residents, and children at the primary schools named. All responses have been made available to the Executive Members for Children’s Services and Schools. Attached at Appendix C are the responses from the formal consultees.
Page 5 of 30
6.3 The response from Blackburn with Darwen Local Authority- Appendix C(i)- summarises the background position, recognises the views of residents put to them and requests that Bolton Council gives urgent and detailed consideration to the establishment of a catchment area for children from the (North Turton) rural Community, so they can attend their nearest school. The response from Blackburn with Darwen Admissions Forum is the same as that for the Local Authority.
6.4 The response from Turton High- Appendix C(ii)- questions the legality of the removal of the guarantee of a place under the original agreement with Lancashire County Council. The school suggests that a consequence of the change is that more children from the Harwood area would be admitted under proximity which would be detrimental to Withins school. It questions the consultation process, that it has not adequately considered families in other local authority areas. The school proposes that: North Turton be designated as a catchment area; followed by a further criteria to provide for children who would face a longer or more difficult journey by public transport to the next nearest secondary school; and then all other applicants. The school asks that the historical connections and working relationships of the area are taken into account.
6.5 The responses from Belmont CP School- Appendix C (iii)- make a number of points: they emphasise the need for fairness; questions the consultation process; that Bolton Council is positively discriminating against rural pupils; that any criteria should take account of children from other local authority areas; that the proposed criteria would be unfair to Belmont and Edgworth children; that shortest walking routes put rural pupils at a disadvantage. The school stresses the importance of the links with Turton High School, and that without the link children would be split across a number of high schools. The school comments on the Arbiters decision. It suggests two new criteria, that is to establish a catchment area for North Turton, and to prioritise children who would have a longer or more difficult journey to alternative schools.
6.6 The responses from Turton and Edgworth CE Methodist School – Appendix C (iv)- stress: the contribution made by it’s pupils to the success of Turton HS; that if there is uncertainty about transfer of pupils then its numbers will suffer; the extra distances that pupils would have to travel and the difficulty and lengthy nature of alternatives. The school cites the current admission criteria for Rivington and Blackrod HS, which gives a geographical priority. The school suggests that a catchment area for North Turton be introduced and that children from other local authority areas should not be disadvantaged. The school also points to the disadvantage to a rural community of measurement of distance by a straight line.
6.7 The large number of letter and e-mails sent to the Council from parents, children, relatives, residents and local organisations and businesses are available for reference, though because of volume they are not attached to this report. The responses make similar points, whether from a Belmont or Edgworth/Chapeltown perspective. These are summarised as follows:
Turton school was built for the people of Turton The Arbitrators decision guaranteed a place for North Turton Children Concern about the consultation process- they should have been informed earlier The changes would adversely affect village life and the viability of schools and businesses The primary schools and villages rely on the Turton link to attract families to the area There are longstanding family connections to the high school House prices would be affected Page 6 of 30
General effect on rural communities There are positive relationships between the communities and the High School, parents making a significant contribution to Turton There would be an adverse effect on out-of-school activities Children would have much further to go, with more difficult journeys, especially in winter There would be an increase in traffic Parents want their children to go to the nearest school Children would be split from their friends There is a disproportionately long journey to other high schools Admission of Belmont children would only marginally impact on Turton numbers Proposal discriminates against Edgworth in favour of Bromley Cross and Harwood children
In addition most respondents support the establishment of a catchment area for North Turton children and that the disproportionately or difficult journeys faced to alternative schools should be recognised, above other applications for places.
7. Comments on the Responses
7.1 The new Code arises from the Education and Inspections Act 2006, and as such it supercedes the Arbitrators decision and the current Bolton Council policy of guaranteeing a place at Turton High School. The Council has consulted with the statutory consultees as shown by the letter attached at Appendix B. The Council responded to the concerns of the schools and has extended the deadline for representations and is taking into consideration the views expressed from the North Turton community. The Council recognises that for all children in North Turton, a Bolton school is their nearest school. For Chapeltown and Edgworth it is Turton High School, for Belmont village it is Sharples School, in both cases because of the shortest walking route and the availability of public transport.
7.2 The Council has a duty to consider a range of matters in setting its oversubscription criteria, as indicated in Section 3 of this report. There are factors that clearly affect rural areas such as Belmont, Edgworth and Chapeltown around distance to alternative schools and availability of public transport. The council also has to ensure that families who are less able to afford property nearest the school are not excluded. The Council also has to make sure that criteria used are fair to all children. The establishment of a geographical priority area for a denominational voluntary controlled school was to ensure that children were not disadvantaged in attending their nearest high school with the introduction of a faith criteria.
7.3 In view of the guidance set out in the Code, and taking account of all the comments made this report proposes amending the initial proposal. It is proposed that consideration is given to refining the distance criteria in such a way that it takes account the distance and difficulty of travel to alternative schools. Such a principle would apply to all children seeking places in Bolton schools and would have the benefit of giving a priority as far as possible for children to access their nearest community school where a school is oversubscribed. This refinement would benefit the increasing number of children living in or near the town centre, who are currently disadvantaged because of the location of high schools and the current distance criteria
Page 7 of 30
8. Equality Impact Assessment
8.1 This report has been subject to a screening Equality Impact Assessment. No adverse impacts were identified.
9. Recommendation
9.1 In view of the guidance set out in the School Admission Code, taking account of representations made, and the duty to set fair admission criteria, it is recommended that the revised criteria and the associated definitions for oversubscription are as follows:
"To rank all applications initially on the basis of distance from the preferred school measured by the shortest walking route between home and the school with those living nearest to the preferred school being given priority for a place. In the event of oversubscription, priority will be given to children who would have a longer journey to their nearest alternative school measured by the shortest walking route".
The definitions of the terms used are as follows:
- The “shortest walking route” will be determined by the Local Authority. This will be measured using a computerised mapping system, from the entrance of the home property where it joins the highway to the nearest official school entrance gate.
- For flats, this will be the measured from the communal entrance to the building. In the event of a tie-break within a block of flats, those furthest from that entrance will be given priority.
- The “nearest alternative school” will be the nearest Community, Voluntary Controlled, Foundation or Academy school whether within the Bolton Borough or not.
10. For Decision
10.1 The Executive Member is asked:
(i) To confirm the proposed policy for the coordinated admission arrangements for primary and secondary school admission in September 2008 as proposed; and
(ii) To confirm the admission policies for admission into community and voluntary- controlled primary and secondary schools for admission in September 2008 as set out in paragraph 8.1
Page 8 of 30
APPENDIX A- Primary Admissions
PROPOSED BOLTON LA CO-ORDINATED PRIMARY ADMISSION SCHEME FOR 2008/2009 ACADEMIC YEAR
Normal Year Admissions
(a) All parents/carers of Bolton children must complete the Bolton LA application form for admission to the borough maintained primary schools. This will include children with a statement for special educational needs. Parents will also be given the option of applying on-line via the Council’s website
(b) The LA will provide parents with access details to the online application form which will be distributed together with the LA's Primary Admissions Booklet. The booklet will be posted to all parents resident in the Borough who have registered their child for admission into a Bolton primary school. For parents who are unable to apply online a paper preference form will be available and will be posted in September 2007 to all those who have not submitted an online application.
(c) The LA application form (and online application) will allow parents/carers to express at least 3 preferences in rank order and to state reasons for the preferences.
(d) Parents/carers must return the completed form (or submit their online application) to the LA by 19th October 2007. The forms should be sent to the LA's Pupil and Student Services (P&SS) in the envelope provided.
(e) The procedures for processing application forms received after the closing date is given in Appendix A.
(f) The LA will provide the admission authorities details of children whose parents have indicated the school as a preference by 16th November 2007.
(g) For admission to the community and controlled schools all applications will be considered without reference to the parents’ preference ranking
(h) Admission authorities must provide P&SS by 14th December 2007 a list of children to be offered and refused places.
(i) Between January and February 2008, admission authorities will need to consider 2nd preferences for those applicants who have not gained a place at the 1st preference school. Similarly, 3rd preferences will be considered for children who have not been offered a place at their 2nd preference school. Consideration will then be given to children who were not successful in gaining admission at the 1st preference school but whose parents either failed to indicate a 2nd or 3rd preference or named the same school thrice. Thereafter, the admission authorities will consider late applicants. This should ensure that parents/carers of all Bolton children who have applied for admission are offered a place.
(j) All parents/carers of Bolton children will receive letters from the LA informing them of the outcome of the application for admission to the borough primary schools on 14th March 2008. If admission is refused to the preferred borough community and controlled school(s), an appeal form(s) will be sent with the letter, which will inform parents/carers of the alternative school to be offered. Where a place cannot be offered at aided school(s), the LA's letter will advise parents/carers of their right of appeal and provide details of the appeals process.
(k) The LA will continue to co-ordinate admission arrangements until the end of the summer term. This will mean the LA application form must be completed. The LA will provide the relevant admission authority details of children requesting admission. The LA will convey to parents/carers of Bolton children outcome of their application.
Page 9 of 30
Appendix A Primary continued
LATE APPLICATIONS
1. LATE APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THE CLOSING DATE BUT BEFORE PLACES ARE ALLOCATED
The closing date will as far as possible be strictly observed. Late applications will only be considered after all the applications received by the closing date have been considered. Places will however be allocated and parents/carers will receive notification on 14th March 2008.
Only in exceptional circumstances will late applications be considered on time. These may include the following:
parents removed into the borough after the closing date
parents/carers were abroad for the whole period between the publication of the LA's admission booklet and the closing date for the application form
Parental/carer/child illness which required hospitalisation for the major part of the period between the publication of the LA's admission booklet and the closing date for the application form.
2. APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THE ALLOCATION DATE
The LA will continue to manage the co-ordinated admission arrangements after the allocation date i.e. 14th March 2008 until the end of the summer term.
The LA form and any relevant documents will be passed on to the appropriate admissions authority for consideration. The LA will retain responsibility for informing parents/carers about the outcome of their application. If admission is refused to the preferred Borough community and controlled school(s), an appeal form(s) will be sent with the letter, which will inform parents/carers of the alternative school to be offered. Where a place cannot be offered at the Borough aided school(s), in addition to the details about the alternative school offered, the LA's letter will advise parents/carers of their right of appeal and provide details of the appeals process.
WAITING LISTS AND CHANGE OF PREFERENCES
1. WAITING LIST
There is no obligation on admission authorities to maintain waiting lists. Individual admission authorities need to consider if they wish to maintain a waiting list. Where a waiting list is maintained, the admission authority must use the existing oversubscription criteria to rank the children. The LA will maintain a waiting list for admission to the community and controlled schools. Details of children who have not been offered a place at their preferred school(s), including late applicants will automatically be placed on the waiting list.
The waiting list will be compiled using the LA published oversubscription criteria. 1st preferences will be considered ahead of all other preferences. As no distinction will be made between applications received on time and late applications, the waiting list will remain fluid. The LA will maintain the waiting list for the first 3 weeks into the autumn term. Procedures for changing schools after this period are outlined in Appendix D.
2. CHANGE OF PREFERENCES
A change of preference will only be acceptable in exceptional circumstances. This is likely to be when there is a change of address. Verification must be provided e.g. letter from solicitor exchanging contracts or a tenancy agreement.
Page 10 of 30
Appendix A Primary continued
PROPOSED TIMETABLE FOR PRIMARY ADMISSIONS FOR SEPTEMBER 2008
Closing date for applications and return of applications to the LA 19th October 2007 LA sends application details to aided schools within Bolton LA 16th November 2007 Aided schools to inform LA of pupils to be offered/refused places 14th December 2007 Admission authorities consider 2nd preferences for those applicants who have not gained a place at the 1st preference school. Similarly, 3rd preferences will be considered for children who have not been offered a place at their 2nd preference school. Consideration will then be given to children who were not successful in gaining admission at the 1st preference school but whose parents either failed to indicate a 2nd or 3rd preference or named the same school thrice. Thereafter, the admission authorities will consider late applicants. January and February 2008 Offers made to parents by LA 14th March 2008 Appeals June/July
ADMISSIONS OUTSIDE THE NORMAL ADMISSIONS ROUND Types of Casual Admissions
Description Dealt by 1. For children with a Statement of Special 1. LA's Special Needs Officer. Educational Needs 2. For permanently excluded children - 2. LA's Social Inclusion Manager will make includes children who have moved into the referral to the PRU Borough and who have been educated at the previous home LA's PRU following a permanent exclusion 3. All other requests 3. Parents/carers will be advised to contact preferred school. Community/Controlled Schools: A place must be offered unless the year group is full. If the year group is full the school will advise parent to contact Pupil & Student Services. Parents will be advised of available places at schools in the borough and offered a right of appeal against refusal to offer place at the preferred school.
Aided Schools: Head teachers of aided schools will offer a place if the relevant year group is not full. Where it is not possible to offer a place, school will offer parents a right of appeal and inform parents so that the LA can discuss availability of school places.
Page 11 of 30
APPENDIX A continued- SECONDARY
PROPOSED BOLTON LEA CO-ORDINATED SECONDARY ADMISSION SCHEME FOR 2008 ACADEMIC YEAR
1. Normal Year Admissions
(a) All parents/ carers of Bolton children must complete the Bolton LA application form for admission to secondary maintained schools whether located in the Borough or in neighbouring LAs. This will include children with a statement for special educational needs. Parents will also be given the option of applying online.
(b) The LA will provide parents with access details to the online application form which will be distributed together with the LA's Secondary Admissions Booklet. The booklet will be posted to all parents resident in the Borough. For parents who are unable to apply online a paper preference form will be available and will be posted in September 2007 to all those who have not submitted an online application.
(c) The application form (including the online application) will allow parents / carers to express 3 preferences in rank order and to state reasons for their preferences. This will include maintained schools in this and the neighbouring LAs. Parents/carers should only indicate an independent school if a place has been offered and they are sure a place will not be required at a maintained school.
(d) If Canon Slade School or St James CE High School are expressed as preferences, parents / carers must additionally complete the school application form which is obtainable from the school. The completed form must be validated by the Vicar / Faith Leader in time to enable parents to return it to the school by the deadline published by the school.
(e) For Bolton children attending maintained primary schools, the completed LA application form along with other relevant supporting documents must be returned to the child’s primary school. For Bolton children attending non-maintained primary schools, the application form for admission at maintained schools must be returned to the Bolton LA’s Pupil & Student Services.
(f) The closing date for the return of the completed LA preference form will be 19th October 2007. (The supplementary application form for Canon Slade and St James CE Schools will specify the closing date for return)
(g) The procedures for processing application forms received after the closing date is given in Appendix A.
(h) The LA will provide the admission authorities details of children applying for admission by 16th November 2007. This will include details of non Bolton children requiring admission to the borough high schools. Details of Bolton children requiring admission at neighbouring LA schools will be passed on to the relevant neighbouring LA.
(i) For admission to the community/voluntary-controlled high schools, all applications will be considered without reference to the parents’ preference ranking
(j) For admission to Canon Slade School and St James CE High School, the governors will consider all preferences on the basis of their agreed criteria.
(k) For admission to Thornleigh Salesian College, St Joseph RC High School Mount St Joseph RC High School and George Tomlinson School, the governors for each of the schools will consider all applications on the basis of their agreed criteria.
(l) Governors of Canon Slade School, St James’s High School, George Tomlinson School, Thornleigh Salesian College, St Joseph RC High School and Mount St Joseph RC High School will provide the LA details of children to be offered and refused places by 14th December 2007. Details of non Bolton
Page 12 of 30
children will be passed on to the relevant home LA. Neighbouring LAs will provide details of Bolton children who have applied for admission to their schools.
(m) Where a child is offered a place at more than one school, the LA will offer a place at the highest-ranking school. Where this is the case, the LA will inform the relevant admission authority so that the list of pupils who are to be offered and refused places is kept up to date.
(n) The LA, voluntary-aided and Foundation school governors and the neighbouring LAs will then consider 2nd preferences for those applicants who have not gained a place at the 1st preference school. Similarly, 3rd preferences will be considered for children who have not been offered a place at their 2nd preference school. Consideration will then be given to children who were not successful in gaining admission at the 1st preference school but whose parents either failed to indicate a 2nd or 3rd preference or named the same school thrice. Thereafter, the LA and the neighbouring LAs will consider late applicants. This should ensure those parents / carers of all Bolton children who have applied for admission are offered a place.
(o) All parents / carers of Bolton children will receive letters from the LA informing them of the outcome of the application for admission to Borough and neighbouring LA schools on 3rd March 2008. If admission is refused to the preferred Borough community, voluntary-controlled or voluntary-aided RC school(s), an appeal form(s) will be sent with the letter, which will inform parents / carers of the alternative school to be offered. Where a place cannot be offered at foundation, aided school(s) or neighbouring LA school(s), the LA’s letter will advise parents / carers of their right of appeal and provide details of the appeals process.
(p) The LA will continue to co-ordinate admission arrangements until the end of the summer term. This will mean the LA application form must be completed. The LA will provide the relevant admission authority details of children requesting admission. The LA will convey to parents / carers of Bolton children outcome of their application.
2. LATE APPLICATIONS 2.1 LATE APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THE CLOSING DATE BUT BEFORE PLACES ARE ALLOCATED
The closing date will as far as possible be strictly observed. Late applications will only be considered after all the applications received by the closing date have been considered. Places will however be allocated and parents / carers will receive notification on 3rd March 2008.
Only in exceptional circumstances will the late applications be considered on time. These may include the following: parents removed into the borough after the closing date parents / carers were abroad for the whole period between the publication of the LA’s admission booklet and the closing date for the application form parental / carer / child illness which required hospitalisation for the major part of the period between the publication of the LA’s admission booklet and the closing date for the application form
2.2 APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THE ALLOCATION DATE
The LA will continue to manage the co-ordinated admission arrangements after the allocation date i.e. 3rd March 2008 until the end of the summer term. The LA form and any relevant documents will be passed on to the appropriate admissions authority for consideration. The LA will retain responsibility for informing parents / carers about the outcome of their application. If admission is refused to the preferred Borough community voluntary-controlled or voluntary-aided RC school(s), an appeal form(s) will be sent with the letter, which will inform parents / carers of the alternative school to be offered. Where a place cannot be offered at the Borough foundation or aided school(s), in addition to the details about the alternative school offered, the LA’s letter will advise parents / carers of their right of appeal and provide details of the appeals process. Page 13 of 30
Appendix A continued -Secondary
3. WAITING LISTS & CHANGE OF PREFERENCES
3.1 WAITING LIST There is no obligation on admission authorities to maintain waiting lists. Individual admission authorities need to consider if they wish to maintain a waiting list. Where a waiting list is maintained, the admission authority must use the existing oversubscription criteria to rank the children. The LA will maintain a waiting list for admission to the community &voluntary-controlled schools. Parents / carers of all unsuccessful applicants, including late applicants, will be asked if they wish their details to be placed on the waiting list. The waiting list will be compiled using the LA published oversubscription criteria. As no distinction will be made between applications received on time and late applications, the waiting list will remain fluid. The LA will maintain the waiting list until the first week of the autumn term.
3.2 CHANGE OF PREFERENCES A change of preference will only be acceptable in exceptional circumstances. This is likely to be when there is a change of address. Verification must be provided e.g. letter from solicitor exchanging contracts or a tenancy agreement.
4. PROPOSED TIMETABLE FOR SECONDARY ADMISSIONS FOR SEPTEMBER 2008
Closing date for applications and return of forms to the LA 19 October 2007 LA sends application details to aided schools within Bolton LA 16th November 2007 LA to send application details for schools in other LAs to those LAs 16th November 2007 Aided schools and neighbouring LAs to inform Bolton LA of pupils to be offered / refused places 14th December 2007 LA to exchange information of children to be offered and refused places with neighbouring LAs. 12th January 2008 LA applies agreed scheme for own schools. The list of children to be offered / refused places is provided to schools. 26 January 2008 LA & neighbouring LAs will consider applicants who have indicated the relevant school as a 2nd preference if a place at the 1st preference school has not been offered. The same process will be undertaken for 3rd preferences. Once all the Bolton LA children have been offered a place, all admission authorities will be asked to consider late applications. 26January 2008 LA to receive information from schools and neighbouring LAs about second and third preferences and late applications. 5 February 2008 Schools informed by LA of the list of pupils offered admission to their school, including pupils not resident in the borough LA. 26 February 2008 Offers made to Bolton parents by LA 3rd March 2008 Appeals April/May 2008
Page 14 of 30
APPENDIX B- Consultation Letters Date: January 2007 Your Ref:Our Ref: PSS/VF WP No:
Pupil & Student Services Children’s Services Directors of Children’s Services PO Box 53, 3rd floor Paderborn House Lancashire LA Civic Centre Blackburn with Darwen LA Bolton BL1 1JW Bury LA Tel: 01204 333333 Fax: 01204 332145 Salford LA
Wigan LA www.bolton.gov.uk
Dear Colleagues
ADMISSIONS TO PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS 2008-2009 1 As you will be aware, all LA and other Admission Authorities are required to consult with neighbouring LAs and admission authorities on their admission arrangements. This is the purpose of this letter.
Accompanying this letter are copies of Bolton’s information booklet for parents on Admissions to Primary and Secondary Schools. This information includes the admission policies for 2007/2008 for aided schools and foundation schools as well as for community and voluntary controlled schools. Attached are copies of the proposed changes to the information in the booklet that will apply for 2008/2009 admission.
As the new School Admissions Code of Practice prohibits admission authorities from offering a guarantee of a place to parents in a local catchment area it is proposed that reference to the guarantee of a place at Turton High School for pupils living in the Parish of North Turton be removed from the Council’s criteria. Instead all applications will be considered under the proximity criteria unless of course they meet one of the higher priority categories.
I have also included any changes proposed by voluntary-aided primary schools where the LA has been notified.
I would appreciate if you could bring these to the attention of any other admission authorities within your area for which these may be of interest. Page 15 of 30
Also attached is a copy of the proposed co-ordinated schemes, which will apply to both primary and secondary school admissions. If you wish to respond to any of these proposals then please do so in writing by Thursday 1st March 2007.
The schemes will be submitted to the School Admission Forum and the LA will also notify the DfES of our schemes by 15th April 2007.
Please do not hesitate to contact me on the above direct line if you have any queries.
Yours sincerely
Val Fogg Manager, Pupil & Student Services Children’s Services Direct Line: 01204 332092 Direct Fax: 01204 332145 E-mail: [email protected]
Page 16 of 30
Appendix B continued Date: November 2006
Our Ref: VF/PSS
Enquiries to: Val Fogg
Direct Line 01204 332092 Fax 01204 332145 E-mail [email protected]
TO: CHAIRS OF GOVERNORS AND HEAD TEACHERS OF COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTARY CONTROLLED SCHOOLS
Dear Colleague,
ADMISSIONS TO COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTARY CONTROLLED SCHOOLS 2008 -2009
I enclose for your attention, a copy of a report which you are requested to submit to the next meeting of your Governing Body.
In order to enable me to monitor the consultation exercise, I would be grateful if you could complete the enclosed pro-forma and return it to me as soon as possible after your Governors’ meeting. I have also attached a copy of the Council’s admission criteria as amended for admissions in September 2008. In particular your views are requested on the following proposed amendments to the admission criteria for both primary and secondary schools.
1. As you may be aware the Government are consulting on a new School Admissions Code of Practice. One recommendation is that admission authorities operate an equal preference system. Essentially this means that all preferences are considered equally regardless of the order of priority that parents have placed them on the common application form. If the school is over-subscribed then applications are ranked in accordance with the criteria i.e. SEN, Looked after Children, siblings and proximity. The preference ranking is only used to determine which single offer is made to parents where more then one of their preferences can be met.
2. In relation to determining proximity the Code states that admission authorities must not guarantee places to parents in a local catchment area and for that reason it is proposed to remove the current guarantee of a place at Turton Media Arts College that exists for residents in the parish of North Turton in the Blackburn with Darwen area.
3. The Council is again seeking views on simplifying the determination of an application under the proximity criteria by amending the wording to give priority on the basis of distance between the home and the school measured by the shortest walking distance. Alternatively this distance could be measured on a straight line basis.
I would appreciate it if you could forward your response to me no later than Friday 23rd February 2007.
Thanking you for your co-operation.
Yours sincerely,
Val Fogg Manager – Pupil and Student Services Page 17 of 30
Appendix B continued Date: 1st February 2007 Your Ref: Our Ref: VF/PSS
Pupil & Student Services Children’s Services PO Box 53, 1st floor
Paderborn House HEAD TEACHERS AND CHAIRS OF GOVERNORS OF Civic Centre Bolton BL1 1JW BELMONT CP SCHOOL Tel: 01204 333333 TURTON & EDGWORTH PRIMARY SCHOOL Fax: 01204 332145
www.bolton.gov.uk
Dear Colleagues,
PROPOSED ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION INTO BOLTON COMMUNITY SECONDARY SCHOOLS – SEPTEMBER 2008
I attach for your information a copy of the proposed admission policy for admission into Bolton community secondary schools from September 2008. As you are aware Bolton Council’s current admissions policy guarantees the admission of pupils who live in the former area of North Turton to Turton High School provided that it is their first preference.
The School Admission Code of Practice which was laid before parliament on Monday 8th January 2007 is expected to come into force at the end of February 2007. The Code amongst other things prohibits the use of first preference first oversubscription criteria and the guarantee of a place in a school.
Bolton Council is therefore reviewing its admissions policy to take these changes into account for admission in September 2008 by removal of the guarantee of a place at Turton High School and the introduction of an equal preference system. Additionally the Council is proposing to amend the basis on which applications are considered under its proximity criteria to provide a clearer simpler definition for parents when making decisions on their preferences for schools.
The Executive Member will be considering all responses to the consultation on 20th March 2007 and so I would be grateful if you could let me have your comments and views on the proposed criteria as soon as possible but no later than Friday 9th March 2007.
The Council will determine it’s policy by 15th April 2007 after which any objections may be made to the Office of the Schools Adjudicator who may consider objections from admission authorities on any aspect of the admission arrangements for a school for which they are not the admission authority and from parents who consider that admission arrangements contain practices that are unlawful or do not comply with the mandatory provisions of the code. (Full details of this are published in the Code of Practice).
If you require any further clarification, please let me know. I look forward to receiving your views.
Thanking you for your co-operation.
Yours sincerely,
Val Fogg Manager, Pupil & Student Services Children’s Services
Page 18 of 30
Appendix B continued
BOLTON METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL PROPOSED ADMISSION POLICY FOR COMMUNITY SECONDARY SCHOOLS 2008/2009
The proposed policy for admission to community secondary schools for 2008-2009 is as follows.
All parents will be provided with a preference form on which they will be asked to express 3 preferences in order of priority for a secondary school. If the school is over-subscribed the following criteria will be applied in priority order.
All applications will be considered without reference to the parents’ preference ranking
1 Children who have a Statement of Special Educational Need that names the preferred school.
2 Children in Public Care (Looked After Children) who are the subject of a full care order.
3 Children who will have older siblings in years 7 to 11 of the preferred school at the date of admission. Older children from the same family unit, attending a particular school, can be considered to “qualify” a younger child under sibling link criteria, provided proof is available to demonstrate that the children are permanently resident at the same address and part of the same family unit. (The authority accepts that in some family units (1 or 2 adults and children) the children may not be natural brothers and sisters)
4 Children who suffer from some medical condition or disability, which makes it, better for them to attend that school rather than another.
5. All remaining applications will be considered on the basis of the shortest walking route where those living closest to the school will be given highest priority. The shortest walking route will be that determined by the Local Authority.
Page 19 of 30
APPENDIX C- Responses- C(i)
BLACKBURN WITH DARWEN BOROUGH COUNCIL'S RESPONSE TO CONSULTATION ON BOLTON METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL'S PROPOSED ADMISSION ARRANGEMENTS FOR COMMUNITY SCHOOLS FOR 2008-2009
We have taken into consideration Bolton's proposed admission arrangements for admission to Turton Arts & Media College (T -MAC) following the ruling in the new code of practice on school admissions that prohibits the guaranteeing of admission to children in a local catchment area.
We have listened to the views of the residents of the villages and share their concerns that unless the proposed admission arrangements are reviewed and amended the village children may not be able to gain admission to T -MAC which is their nearest school.
The impact on the children and the rural community is likely to be devastating. The nearest alternative school in Darwen is Moorland High School. This journey is long and dangerous. The children from this rural community if required to attend a school some miles away will lose out on extra curricular activities.
As you are aware the admission of North Turton children to T -MAC was as a result of an Arbitrator's decision made in 1977. The Arbitrator in reaching his decision took account of the rural community's close knit links with T-MAC, relative proximity of T-MAC compared to schools in Darwen and the interests of the local children. The links have contributed to developing community cohesion between the communities.
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and Janet Anderson MP for Darwen and Rossendale has written to Jim Knight MP expressing our concerns at the change in the code of practice and the implications of the changes. We have requested that the Arbitrator's decision be allowed to stand as it enables rural children to attend their nearest school.
I understand representations have been made by the Governing Bodies of Edgworth and. Belmont Primary Schools. I understand the Governing Body of T-MAC has also expressed a desire to enable these children to be given priority for admission at their school.
As you are aware the new code requires all admission authorities to act in accordance with the code. The code and the related regulations require all admission authorities to operate a fair admissions system that promotes social equity and community cohesion. Blackburn with Darwen Council is aware of the challenges facing Bolton Council in setting a fair admission system.
The rural community have expressed a desire for Bolton Council to include their area as a catchment area for admission to T-MAC and I would express our support for this desire. I understand this is a practice which is accepted in the code of practice.
We would request that Bolton Council to give urgent and detailed consideration to the establishment of a catchment area for children from this rural community. This would ensure that the children from this rural community are not disadvantaged in having a fair chance of gaining admission to T-MAC - which is their nearest school.
Page 20 of 30
APPENDIX C continued- C(ii)
Turton High School Response:
RESPONSE TO CONSULTATION ABOUT THE NEW ADMISSIONS CODE 19 February 2007
Lack of Fairness in the New Admissions Arrangements
Para 1 We, the governors of Turton High School, are responding to Bolton Metro's request for views on the Council's new admissions criteria for 2008 entry. We understand that these are a response to the Government's new School Admissions Code which is designed to be 'a fair way that promotes social equity and community cohesion' (to quote from Alan Johnson's introduction).
Para 2 We wish to object most strongly to the paragraph in your letter that states 'it is proposed to remove the current guarantee of a place at Turton Media Arts College that exists for residents in the parish of North Turton in the Blackburn with Darwen area.' We understand that the argument is that the new Code supersedes any previous arrangement but we have not seen the basis for this judgment. Has legal opinion been sought as to whether the original agreement with Lancashire for children from these parishes to attend Turton is in fact over-ridden by the new Code? If it has then we would like to see the advice. There is a strong historical basis for the connection between the three schools and we feel there must be careful consideration given to the proposed change which is not evident in the letter of consultation sent out.
Para 3 We further feel that Bolton needs to look carefully at the consequence of the proposed change on other schools in the Bolton area: the 'ripple' effect'. We are keen to see our North Bolton Excellence Cluster partner schools prosper and not be disadvantaged by any changes. We note that one of the consequences of the proposed changes may be that more children from the Harwood area will be admitted to Turton on the proximity rule (criteria 5) which could be detrimental to Withins School.
Para 4 We also wish to express our concern about the way that this consultation has been carried out. For such a major proposal not to be sent to the two key primary schools seems to transcend the very basis of fairness on which the new code is based. The new Code stresses the importance of having co-ordinated admission schemes (paragraph 1.16 (b)) which must ensure that they 'do not disadvantage applications to their schools from families resident in other local authorities.' It seems to us that this consultation did not adequately consider the position of these families.
Proposed Solutions
Para 5 If, however, the proposal to remove the special relationship that has existed between Turton High School and the two North Turton primaries be deemed by Bolton's legal department to be a consequence of the new Act then we propose the following amendments to the over-subscription criteria for Turton. On the basis of the historic connection between the three schools and on the basis of fairness for rural communities and social cohesion we propose the following to Page 21 of 30
ensure that the residents of the two parishes will be able to continue to have a good chance that their children will be admitted to Turton.
Para 6 Under section 2.38 of the admissions code: To ensure that the rural communities served by Belmont and Edgworth primaries are not treated unfairly and to maintain the social cohesion of these North Turton areas, we wish to designate the parishes of Belmont and Edgworth as catchment areas of Turton High School. This would maintain the status quo and so could not be said to limit 'access to the school' for 'other schools in the area'. It would also prevent the splitting up of the children in Belmont and Edgworth respectively. If this were not to happen, some of those closest to Turton in Edgworth may be admitted on the basis of the existing proposed over- subscription criteria (criteria 5) but those in the more out-lying areas would not be. In the case of Belmont all but four children over the next five years will be admitted to Turton under the sibling criteria (criteria 3). The effect of the shortest walking distance criterion would be to isolate the few children who are not, which would seem to contravene paragraph 2.24/25 of the code which insists on consideration of children's 'social and medical needs'. Therefore we propose a new criterion 5
'Children from Turton High School's designated catchment areas which comprise the parishes of North Turton (as at present).
Para 7 Further under paragraph 2.31 of the code: Admissions authorities can include priority for children who could reach one school more easily than another one by public transport. Clearly, the impact of changes could have a disproportionate effect on the travel arrangements of children in outlying rural areas. The next nearest school for Edgworth pupils would mean a much more difficult journey. So we propose that criterion 6 becomes:
'Children who would face a longer or more difficult journey by public transport to the next nearest secondary school'
The current criterion 5 would become criterion 7.
It is our view that these additions to Bolton's proposed oversubscription criteria are essential to ensure fairness and maintain historical links and close working relationships within the parishes of Turton. We ask you to include them in the criteria to be approved by the Executive Member.
Page 22 of 30
Appendix C continued- C(iii) Belmont CP School- Responses
RESPONSE LETTER RE CHANGES UNDER THE NEW ADMISSIONS CODE
Lack of Fairness in the New Admissions Arrangements
We, the governors of Belmont Primary School, are responding to Bolton Metro's request for views on the Council's new admissions criteria for 2008 entry. We understand that these are a response to the Government's new School Admissions Code and that these are designed to be 'a fair way that promotes social equity and community cohesion' .
We also wish to express our concern about the way that this consultation has been carried out. For such a major proposal not to be sent to the two key primary schools seems to transcend the very basis of fairness on which the new code is based.
It would seem that Bolton is positively discriminating against rural pupils which is against the spirit of fairness so heavily promoted in the Code of Practice and also possibly contrary to the Education Act itself and unless it is reconsidered we shall seek legal advice.
The new code stresses the importance of having co-ordinated admission schemes (paragraph 1.16 (b) ) which must ensure that they 'do not disadvantage applications to their schools from families resident in other local authorities'. It seems to us that this consultation did not adequately consider the position of these families
The code makes references to fairness, parental response, and community cohesion (para. 1.8; 1.11; 1.13; 1.24.) In seeking the parents' views we have comments such as, " ... We strongly believe that the proposed five point criteria would be unfair to children in rural areas -particularly Belmont and Edgworth",
" ... 'the shortest walking route' element of the proposals due to its rural location puts pupils at an unfair disadvantage."
" .... Having looked at your comments regarding Bolton's Admissions policy it would appear that unless they amend this they are positively discriminating against children resident in rural villages."
Children's Welfare and Community Cohesion.
It is likely that children resident in Belmont will be going to several different schools under your policy, something that would simply break up the community. Belmont has forged strong links with Turton during the past 30 years, attending many sporting, musical, social and transition events that have been organised. TMAC has a long successful relationship with Belmont school, which has contributed to the benefit of both schools. For example TMAC recognises sensitivity and understanding towards children joining from a small school We feel most strongly that these should not come to an end.
There are a small number of children in the village and it is clearly important for those children to continue their education together and maintain their social contact and mutual support. Furthermore we believe a change of the status quo will have implications for the future of Belmont Primary School. None of us will know what they may be but what we do know is that the current arrangements has meant that the village has a primary school to be proud of and is at the heart of the village community.
Page 23 of 30
APPENDIX C (iii) continued- Belmont CP "Physical Barriers" in the New Arrangements.
We feel that including an element of "shortest walking distance" is simply not appropriate for any child that lives within Be1mont. It is not sensible to believe that a child could walk at least 7 miles everyday to be educated. Para. 2.31 and 2.33 of "The Code" clearly indicate that time and existing transport arrangements should be considered. We know that there will be one family, who will have children at Turton Media College for the next 16 years and transport for them will be required, it is unclear where other children may be expected to go and how.
Historical Background
The present building at Turton Media College was built by Lancashire for the pupils of Turton and the rural communities of both Belmont and Edgworth. On the 14th June 1977 an Arbitrator, J.H.Taylor, concluded that " ... I am sure that the most important consideration be the interests of the children concerned. Having tried to evaluate all the factors, I find that the children of the Lancashire County Council should be continued to be admitted to Turton High School."
We can see no material change in circumstances since this judgement, certainly there has been no other education provision made for these children. Consequently it is our opinion that the new admissions code only strengthens the arbitrators 1977 conclusion.
Proposed solution
We feel that there needs to be an amendment to the over-subscribed criteria for Turton Media College. The Code in para. 2.35 and 2.38, refers to "catchment areas", something that already exists within Bolton LA.
In order to maintain the cohesion that we have with Turton we would propose that you insert a new criteria, after the present point 4 and before point 5. This would be to designate the parishes of Belmont and Edgworth as a catchment area. Thus, New criteria 5 would read,
"Children from Turton High School's designated catchment areas which comprise the parishes of North Turton (as at present)."
Furthermore, an additional criteria 6 would be based on Para. 2.31 of the code and read as follows,
"Children who would face a longer or more difficult journey by public transport to the next nearest secondary school."
The present criteria 5 would then become 7.
We understand that the Governing Bodies of Turton Media College and Edgworth School also suggest similar criteria. This is further supported in Blackburn with Darwen LA's response.
We note that the Executive Members will be considering responses on 20th March, and will look forward to our suggestions being included in the Council's Policy.
Chair of Governors Belmont Primary School
Page 24 of 30
Appendix C (iii) continued- Belmont CP References
Para 1.16b do not disadvantage applications to their schools from families resident in other local authorities (which would be contrary to the Greenwich Judgment!).
Para 1.8 states, " ..... will be required to promote fair access to educational opportunity, promote high standards and the fu1fillment by every child of his educational potential, secure choice and diversity and respond to parental representations." .
Para 1.11 "In addition, local authorities must consider parental representations about the provision of schools in their areas and respond setting out any action which the authority proposes to take, or where the authority believes no action is necessary, their reasons behind that opinion".
1.13 "Furthermore, Governing Bodies of all maintained schools must promote community cohesion, under section 21 of the Education Act 2002 as amended by section 38 of the Education and Inspections Act 2006. Ofsted will report on the discharge of this duty." Clearly your point 5 would go against this and all of the community links that have been established over the past 30 years, would come to an end.
1.24 "Consultation is an important part of the process of formulating and determining admission arrangements, and local authorities and admission authorities must work together to ensure that schools' arrangements meet the needs of all parents and children."
2.31 "Admission authorities should take account of the time it will take to travel to school, and the availability of public transport in establishing their over subscription criteria. "
2.33 "It is good practice to give priority to children who could reach one school (but not others) by public transport, or to children who would have a disproportionately." 2.35 "The 1997 Rotherham2 Judgment confirmed that there is nothing unlawful in the principle of admission authorities operating catchment areas as part of their over subscription criteria and thereby giving priority to local children whose parents have expressed a preference for the school. However, admission authorities must not guarantee places to parents in a local catchment area, in case the pattern of preferences expressed does not allow this guarantee to be met. In drawing up catchment areas, admission authorities should ensure that they reflect the diversity of the community served by the school, and must not exclude particular housing estates or addresses in a way that might disadvantage particular social groups. A catchment area does not prevent parents expressing a preference for the school if they do not live in the area."
2.38 "Some schools establish a number of small catchment areas some of which are some distance from school"
1 R v Greenwich London Borough Council, ex parte John Ball Primary School (1989) 88 LGR 589 [1990] Fam Law 469
Page 25 of 30
APPENDIX C (iii) continued BELMONT CP
Dear Rosa and Linda,
I write for your assistance. I have 12, Year 5 children in my school, 9 of which reside in Bolton LA. Of the three remaining children one has a sibling at Turton Media College.
This leaves me with the task of explaining to two of the children that if Turton Media College is over subscribed in 2008, they will not be able to go with the rest of their classmates, under your criteria proposals for "over subscribed" schools in Bolton.
I have read the Code of Practice and "fairness" runs throughout the document. Could you explain to me then, how I tell the two l0 year olds that have expected to transfer to Turton Media College, in some cases as their parents did, can no longer do so because the policies have been changed to make it "fair", especially as you have been recently quoted as saying, "We have a very fair admissions policy which has been devised in consultation with a lot of people, including parents." "These figures show that parents have confidence in their local schools, which are doing very well and improving all the time."
Indeed this will be the case for a number of years to come. At Belmont 53% of the school's population reside in Bolton LA, and therefore this issue is not going to be uncommon.
There are of course several ways of addressing the situation, and I am sure that you will be well aware of the suggestion of a "catchment area", that indeed my Governing Body has suggested in their formal response, and one that The Secretary of State has agreed could be used as criteria. There have been many other suggestion, such as using the wording" ..... next nearest alternative school.. .. " as many Authorities use already, at least this would be thinking ofthe Child's needs.
I do hope you will give full consideration to all proposals, after all "Every Child Matters", should mean "Every Child" and not exclude those from rural areas who would have no choice. I hope that you will be able to return the "very fair admissions policy" that you have at present.
Yours sincerely,
C.J.Hoddle Headteacher Belmont Primary School
Page 26 of 30
APPENDIX C (iv) Turton & Edgworth CEMP
Response from Turton & Edgworth CE Methodist Primary School
RESPONSE TO CONSULTATION ON BOLTON SCHOOLS ADMISSIONS POLICY FOR 2008-2009
I write on behalf of the Governors of Turton and Edgworth CE Methodist Primary School, in response to your consultation document on Admissions to Community and Voluntary Controlled Schools 2008-2009, which you circulated in November 2006. I am grateful to you for attending our recent meeting at school to hear the views of parents and other residents of the parish of North Turton, and for extending your deadline for responses, in light of the fact that the consultation document was not initially sent to the school, since we are in a different local authority.
The families who live in North Turton, many of whose children attend this school, will be dramatically affected by your proposal to abolish the longstanding arrangement that ensures that children in this parish can attend their nearest secondary school, Turton Media Arts College (T-MAC), and apply a rigid proximity principle. As a consequence there will be a significant impact in the viability of this school, which is what we as Governors must be particularly concerned about. There will also be a strongly detrimental effect on the cohesion of community life more generally.
This is a high-performing primary school, rated outstanding by Ofsted, which provides an excellent service to its community. It has been able to achieve this thanks not only to the quality of the teaching and non-teaching staff, and their leaders, but also because it has benefited from the high levels of investment put into primary education in the last decade, on the back of stable or rising pupil numbers. However, its excellent reputation will not be enough to maintain the necessary levels of new admissions if parents fear that at the end of year six their children will not be able to attend the nearest secondary school. Those who can afford to do so will move closer to T-MAC in order to secure places there under the proximity principle, and will then choose to send their children to the nearest primary school. Pupil numbers at this school will decline, budgets will be cut and the excellent pupil/teacher ratio we are currently able to support will not be sustainable in the long run. The excellent historical relationship between the two schools, which is enormously beneficial to pupils preparing to make the step up from primary to secondary education, will be lost. The cohesion and sense of security that comes from knowing that most of one's classmates will be attending the same secondary school will go.
The promise that children from North Turton can attend T-MAC has existed for a very long time, and exists for a very good reason, namely that it is the closest secondary school for them, notwithstanding that it lies within a different local authority area. The next nearest secondary schools within Bolton, and those within Blackburn with Darwen, in Darwen itself, are all significantly further away (4.3 miles to Sharples, and over 5 miles to any other secondary school, compared with 2.4 miles to T-MAC). The roads to Darwen are not well served by public transport and can be rendered impassable by snow in winter. To get to Darwen by train, one has to travel first by car, bike or bus to Bromley Cross station, immediately facing T-MAC. To get to any other secondary school in Bolton, one would effectively drive past T-MAC. Nothing has changed in the geography of the area, or the location of the surrounding secondary schools, to change or undermine the rationale for guaranteeing North Turton children a place at their nearest school.
On the contrary, the proposal to rigidly apply the proximity principle will effectively ensure that, given that T-MAC is an oversubscribed school, in most years no children from North Turton who do not meet one of the other criteria (SEN, looked after child, sibling at the school) will be able to attend their nearest school, because places will be taken up by those who live closer, even though they also live closer to other secondary schools. The effect will be children travelling further distances, in different directions to different schools, with negative impacts on the environment, on transport and on community cohesion in the villages that make up North Turton, directly negating other important government policies. Over time, we could br transporting up to 150 children (Y7 to Y11 x 30 children per cohort) to more distant schools. The opportunity for the children to attend extended school activities such as homework clubs, sporting or musical events will be severely constrained. This semi-rural community could be damaged by the impact on village life, on property values and the viability of local businesses if parents vote with their feet. Secondary-age Page 27 of 30
Appendix C (iv) continued Turton & Edgworth children who do not see each other at school during the day will not socialise as well in the evenings and weekends and an important element of the social cohesion of village life will be sacrificed.
I understand that it is the local authority's view that the new schools admissions code expressly prohibits the guaranteeing of places at a given school to children from a specific catchment area, and that this is the rationale behind the proposed changes. In Clearly the arrangement proposed in relation to Rivington and Blackrod VC High School does not contradict these strictures, since it makes clear that if the number of children qualifying exceeds the number of places available then the proximity criterion will apply. The same condition could apply to North Turton children applying for T-MAC. The Code also explicitly provides for the possibility of schools identifying specific catchment areas, providing that due account is taken of the impact on the admissions of other schools. There is therefore no reason in the provisions of the Code why effectively the current arrangement for North Turton children could not continue to run, albeit falling short of an absolute guarantee. I draw your attention to paragraph 1.16 of the Code, which provides that local authorities must ensure that they "do not disadvantage applications to their schools from families resident in other local authorities (which would be contrary to the Greenwich Judgment)." Abolition of the current arrangement in respect of North Turton children, especially when no similar abolition is proposed in relation to children living in Horwich or Blackrod, does just that.
Please give these arguments your full attention, and amend your proposals accordingly. I am copying this letter to Blackburn with Darwen local authority, to our local MP, Janet Anderson, and to the Secretary of State for Education.
Yours sincerely
David Knight Chair of Governors
Page 28 of 30
APPENDIX C (iv) continued Turton & Edgworth
Response from HT – Turton & Edgworth CE Methodist School
I write to you on behalf of Turton and Edgworth Primary School, in response to the consultation on the proposed new admission criteria for Bolton Secondary schools and with specific reference to the criteria for Turton Media and Arts College. May I once again express my thanks for your attendance at our recent open meeting and for extending the period for consultation.
As you are aware the proposed criteria contain some very significant changes, and the implications of these changes are huge for our schools, families and village. While I accept that some of the changes are statutory and leave little room for manoeuvre I would also suggest that the new Code of Practice does allow for some leeway and should also allow for some of the very good-practice in terms of transition from Edgworth to Turton to be maintained.
My major concern with the proposed criteria is the total lack of awareness of children who do not have close proximity to any secondary school. Turton is our nearest secondary school at 2.4 miles by road (I think a more useful measure as a walking distance is not appropriate over this scale and an 'as the crow flies' is fairly meaningless over reservoirs and farmland), clearly that immediately puts many of our families outside a huge area of priority - even a two mile ring around t:mac includes an enormous area - and means that with Turton's habitual oversubscription that these children would not be offered a place. The fact that these children reside in a rural, rather than urban, area cannot be used against them in their choice of secondary education. Were these families bypassing other schools in order to select Turton then I would accept that proximity becomes a useful criterion, but this is simply not the case, they are applying to their nearest option. Children who live very close to, or even beyond, other secondary schools would have a greater chance of attending t:mac if the proximity measure is used, surely this cannot make real sense?
Point 2:31 in the new Code of Practice states that 'Admission authorities should take account of the time it will take to travel to school, and the availability of public transport in establishing their oversubscription criteria' While this is a classic example of time and distance being an issue I cannot see that the proposed criteria take any account of this.
Point 2:33 goes on to state that: 'It is good practice to give priority to children who could reach one school (but not others) by public transport, or to children who would have a disproportionately long journey to another school if denied admission to their nearest school. '
Not gaining admission to Turton would certainly give our children disproportionately long journeys, even to the next nearest secondary school which according to my reckoning (and Google's maps) would be Sharples at 4.3 miles, all other options come in at over 5 miles. However, despite this guidance I cannot see that the proposed criteria deal with this at all. We live in times of constant drives for extended school activities and for children to be included in these wherever possible. Long and difficult journeys will be a huge disincentive for children to take part in these activities. Page 29 of 30
Their socialization, commitment to, and ownership of their secondary school and their chances to enjoy and achieve, make positive contributions and stay safe would all be detrimentally affected. This hardly seems to ally itself with the idea that 'every child matters'!
In the long run it would seem likely that over 150 children per day could be transported out of the village over these extended distances (30 children x 5 KS3 and KS4 years - even on these conservative figures that totals 1500 miles traveled per day on a five mile journey), not only is this a safety issue but it also goes against every bit of common sense and environmental awareness that we encourage. It also seems even more bizarre that all these children would actually pass Turton on every school journey that they make.
The long standing agreement that has allowed children from the North Turton district may now be superseded by the new act, although this still seems to be something of a moot point, but surely the reasoning behind the agreement still stands. The arbitrator made his decision because this was in the best interests of these children. Although his decision may no longer be binding it would seem folly to disregard what was judged to be good practice in the past.
There are many impacts that the proposed criteria will have including destruction of the village community, increased house prices in proximity to high schools, lack of community cohesion, the splitting of friendships as children are given places at disparate schools, anxiety within and beyond families and a huge impact upon the intake numbers of us as a feeder primary school. Over the years we have spent a great deal of time and effort, as have Turton High School, in building links between the two schools with reference to transition, use of expertise, sports and good practice, it would now seem that these links are disregarded by Bolton LA, though certainly not by the schools. I must say that throughout the consultation process t:mac nave been most helpful and supportive and this has been highly appreciated.
In conclusion I would like to suggest that an addition is made to the current proposed criteria with reference to oversubscription. As the fifth point I would like you to consider inserting something along the lines of:
"Children applying to their nearest school who would face a disproportionately long or more difficult journey to the next or other secondary schools."
Of course it would also be possible to set up the North Turton area as a designated catchment area - if this were done then the criteria could be:
"Children from Turton High school's designated catchment areas."
I hope that these ideas are useful to you and that you will consider altering the criteria to create what we would perceive as a more fair and equitable system to allow a most successful relationship between the two schools to continue.
Thank you for your time in considering these points.
Yours sincerely Stewart Plowes (Headteacher)
Page 30 of 30