School Admissions Code

2009 Edition

Author:

Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF)

Publisher:

TSO (The Stationery Office)

Price: £17.00

Through the Education and Skills Act 2008 the statutory admissions framework has been strengthened to ensure that all schools adopt fair and lawful admissions practices. The changes to the School Admissions Code (the Code) support the new framework and continue to put children and families at the heart of the admissions process to achieve fair access for all.

The Code came into force on 10 February 2009 and, unless otherwise stated, applies with immediate effect. This Code applies to admissions to all maintained schools. Where mandatory requirements are imposed by this Code it is stated that relevant bodies 'must' comply with the particular requirement or provision. The Code also includes guidelines that the relevant bodies should follow.

All admission authorities must comply with the mandatory requirements of this Code and admissions legislation. Academies funding agreements require their arrangements to be in accordance, or consistent with the Code. Local authorities have a duty to report on compliance with this Code, and the overall impact of the admission arrangements in their area on fair access. Failure by an authority or body to comply with the mandatory requirements in this Code is a breach of that authority's or body's statutory duty to act in accordance with the provisions of this Code.

This Code applies to the following bodies:

• admission authorities (local authorities and governing bodies);

• governing bodies;

• local authorities;

• Admission Forums;

• School Adjudicators; and

• admission appeal panels.

This revised Code ensures that parents are listened to and their views shape school policies. It will also enable schools to have a balanced and representative intake that reflects the local community.

Please note: this publication supersedes the previous edition of the School Admissions Code (March 2007, ISBN 9780112711933).