Schools - admissions appeals

In West Lothian, all appeals are heard by the West Lothian (Placing in Schools) Appeals Committee. This committee is independent of Education and Cultural Services.

Parents will be sent a letter if the Director of Education & Cultural Services has refused the application. The letter will say that parents can appeal to the council's West Lothian (Placing in Schools) Appeals Committee against the application being refused. It will say to whom a letter of appeal should be sent.

The Committee hears cases and considers written evidence and makes decisions. This is a formal legal process. If parents want to appeal, they can appeal in writing, in person, by themselves or with the help of a friend or representative. If parents cannot attend, they can have someone else  speak on their behalf. There will also be representatives of the Director of Education & Cultural Services at the appeal hearing to put the council's case forward. The Committee takes the decision independently. Parents then have the right to appeal to the Sheriff if the Committee does not  decide in their favour.