Volunteer as a panel member for statutory school appeals

Appeal panels are responsible for examining cases in which parents wish to contest:

• a refusal by a school’s admissions authority to admit a child
• a governing body’s decision to permanently exclude a child

Each case is heard by three panel members, including one who is trained to act as a chairperson. A trained clerk is also present and gives advice on the law and regulations to make sure panel members follow the right procedures.

Become a volunteer

We need panel members to take part in admission appeals and exclusion appeals.

To become a volunteer, you will need to be able to:

• spare a few days or more each year
• be impartial without being swayed by emotion
• listen to both sides of an argument to make reasoned decisions

Specialist knowledge of this field is not essential. We are looking for people who are passionate about education and have time to consider all the issues involved.

We offer full training and will reimburse travel and subsistence expenses, although at present appeal hearings take place via Zoom.

Membership of Appeal Panels is constituted in accordance with the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 and some people may not be eligible to serve, including current Essex County Council employees.