We are looking for people to join our independent School Appeal Panels, as volunteers are urgently needed to hear appeals when children are not offered a place at their preferred school.
All parents or carers have the right to appeal to an independent panel.
As a panel member you will hear cases where parents or carers wish to appeal a decision made by Cambridgeshire County Council or a school. You will listen carefully to all sides, ask questions to fully understand the facts, and work with other panel members to reach a fair and lawful decision.
The appeal panel is independent of the local authority, and its decisions are binding on all parties, unless overturned by the courts.
What are we looking for
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. You do not need to have worked in education – full training will be provided, and you will be fully supported by the Appeals Service.
Key skills and qualities:
- Be committed to treating everyone equally
- Communicate effectively with a wide range of people
- Ask questions to obtain information and clarify points being made
- Analyse information and use it to form opinions and conclusions
- Obtain and weigh up evidence to reach a decision
- Work as part of a team, take advice and develop skills
- Computer literacy is preferred but not essential as training will be offered.
There is no minimum time commitment required; volunteers decide how much time they can give.
Appeals are held throughout the year, with peak months being April to July. They can be either half days or full days.
Hearings are currently held online using Microsoft TEAMS.
Cllr Edna Murphy, Chair of the Children and Young People Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council said: “Volunteering on appeal panels is both meaningful and impactful, with your contribution genuinely valued by all sides.
“It’s also a great opportunity to learn new skills or enhance the ones you already have, so the benefit is twofold. If you feel you could offer this support, we’d love to hear from you."
Anyone interested in applying or who would like an informal chat about the role should contact Clare.cronk@cambridgeshire.gov.uk or visit our webpage at School admission appeals panel volunteering | Cambridgeshire County Council
