If your child has been refused a place at one or more of your preferred schools, you have the right to appeal the decision.
How to Appeal
- Complete the Online School Admission Appeal Form.
- You must submit your appeal within 20 school days of receiving your refusal letter.
- Appeals are heard by an independent panel.
Make a school admissions appeal
What Happens Next
- you’ll receive at least 10 school days’ notice of your appeal hearing date.
- Appeals for secondary schools are usually held in April and May for September starts.
- Appeals for primary schools are usually held in May, June and July for September starts.
- You’ll receive a letter with the outcome of your appeal within 5 school days of the hearing.
Key Dates
- Secondary Offer Day: 3 March 2026
- Primary Offer Day: 16 April 2026
Important Notes
- You can only appeal for a school at which you have applied and been refused
- Appeals are considered individually and based on the information you provide.
- If you submit your appeal late, it will still be considered, but may be heard after other appeals for the same school.
- There may be many appeals for the same school, which can affect scheduling and outcomes.
Additional Information
View the Rotherham School Admissions guidance and Appeal Form
View the Department for Education School Admissions Appeals Code 2022
View the Department for Education’s Advice Document for Parents or Guardians
