Local Government Ombudsman

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London Borough of Redbridge (05A02446)

School admissions                      Maladministration causing injustice

08 December 2005

‘Ms Ferguson’ (not her real name for legal reasons) complained about the way the Council dealt with her appeal against its decision not to offer a place for her son at her preferred school, for entry in September 2005.

The Ombudsman finds maladministration by the Council since it did not arrange for an appeal to be heard within 30 school days of Ms Ferguson’s request, as required by the statutory Code of Practice. Although an appeal was heard, the delay of almost five months caused injustice to her and to her son.

The Council agreed to:

  • revise its booklet about how to apply for a school place, to include a clear statement of the Council’s policy to not consider repeat applications in the same academic year except where there is a material change of circumstances; and
  • apologise to Ms Ferguson for the distress caused by the unnecessary delay and pay her compensation of £200 for this.
     

Date Published: 20/03/09