Many parents are awaiting 1 March 2016 with mixed emotions as they learn which school has been allocated to their children from September 2016.

Based on historical data the majority will secure a place at the school of their choice but for the 10% that do not the period of anxiety is likely to continue for a little longer as they embark on the uncertainty of the statutory appeal process.

On average only one appeal in three will be successful but you can significantly improve your chances of success by following a few simple steps. Firstly, you will need to ensure that you fully prepare for the appeal. This will involve researching the school in question so that you know all you need to know about the school. Secondly, you will need to prepare a thorough and compelling personal case supported by appropriate and suitable third party support.

Make sure that you are fully prepared for the appeal. The school appeal procedure is a statutory process and is subject to the principles of natural justice. Although the appeal itself will be held as informally as possible, there will be a order of business on the day to ensure that both sides of the appeal, the parents and the admission authority, are given an equal opportunity to present their own case and also question the other side. Preparation is key to success.

There is a lot of advice available but if you need a helping hand, have a look at the various services that is available through School Appeals and give yourselves the best opportunity of securing a place at the school of your choice.

The school admissions and appeals process can be described as an endurance exercise and those that survive the test are the ones most likely to succeed.