County Council seeks members to school Appeals Panels

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN EDUCATION?

Can you see both sides of every argument?  Do you have some time to spare?

If so, Worcestershire County Council would like to hear from you to serve on Appeals Panels which deal with school admissions and permanent exclusion from school.

The Panels make decisions on pupils refused places at, or excluded from, Worcestershire schools.

Panels sit for periods ranging from a couple of hours to several days.  Although appeals are heard throughout the year the peak period is April to August each year.  Appeals relating to permanent exclusion are fewer in number and are arranged as needed. All appeal hearings take place during the working day.   As part of a group of panel members you will be contacted in advance to confirm your availability.

These Panels are completely independent of the Admissions Authority and any decisions they make are binding.  They are supported and advised by a Clerk.

Skills and experience which are necessary for the role include being able to:

  • communicate effectively with a wide range of people
  • assess information and identify key points of the case
  • ask probing questions
  • be impartial and sensitive
  • respect the need for appropriate confidentiality

The Council welcomes interest from all sections of the community; governors, parents and ex teachers as well as people with an interest in education but no direct experience in a school.

Full training will be provided and travel and subsistence expenses are reimbursed.

If you are interested in serving on these Panels, please