School appeals committee

Join the panel that considers school catchment appeals

School pupil with her bike outside a schoolWe’re looking for parent volunteers who want to give back to the community

The school appeals committee is an independent panel made up of three members, including one parent volunteer. The panel considers appeals when a child has been refused a place at their preferred school. The committee offers families an impartial and fair hearing, independent of the Council.

Could you be a parent volunteer?

This is a rewarding position that helps make key educational decisions for our young people. Some hearings can be sensitive for parents or guardians, but they’re essential so that a fair outcome is reached for each child.

Appeals are currently taking place during weekdays online, using Microsoft Teams

What does the job involve?

  • Preparing for appeals by reading case notes before hearings
  • Attending one or two hearings a month, and more frequently during the busy months of May to July
  • Providing an independent voice

Before sitting on the panel, we’ll give you formal training and you’ll have to observe two appeal hearings. Find out more about the placing in appeals process.

Interested?

You don’t need any formal qualifications to apply and we welcome people from all backgrounds. You must be 18 or over and have:

  • children of school age
  • a few days a month to spare
  • an interest in education.

It’s easy to apply. Email us with your telephone number to let us know you’re interested:

schoolappeals@edinburgh.gov.uk

We’ll arrange an informal chat about the position. We look forward to hearing from you.