Would you like to become an Independent Panel Member to hear School Admission Appeals?
What is the role?
Warwickshire County Council are seeking volunteers to become independent panel members to hear school admission appeals. Independent Appeal Panels consider appeals by parents against school admission decisions in relation to schools within Warwickshire and some neighbouring counties. This is an important role and panels are required by law.
Panel Members need only dedicate as much time as they are willing to offer to the role, our busiest time for appeal hearings is from April to July each year. Hearings are held during the day, in term time. At the moment we are hearing appeals virtually, however this may go back to in person and hearings will be held at various locations across the County and travel expenses are reimbursed.
What experience will I need?
We are looking for (1) Lay Panel members (people without personal experience in the management of any school or provision of education in any school) and (2) Non-Lay Panel members (people with experience in education, acquainted with educational conditions in the area or parents of a registered pupil at a school).
Panel Members must exercise good judgement and demonstrate sound reasoning skills to ensure fair consideration of every case. You will need to be interested in schools and education and prepared to undertake training for the role – which will be provided by Warwickshire County Council. Current or former members, officers, and employees of the Local Authority, (except teachers and teaching assistants), are excluded from becoming independent panel members.
How do I apply or just find out more?
We are inviting expressions of interest to be submitted to us by e-mail to schoolappeals@warwickshire.gov.uk by no later than 20th January 2023.
If you have any questions about this role, please do not hesitate to telephone either Tania Martin or Jayne Comerford on 01926 736381 or 01926 412082, or alternatively we will be holding an open day where you may come along for an informal discussion on the role and meet the Team. You will also have an opportunity to talk to existing panel members about their experiences. Provisionally this will take place week commencing 30th January 2023.