Fair access protocol - guide for parents

What is the protocol?

The fair access protocol is triggered when an eligible child has not secured a place under the normal in year admissions procedure. 

What is the point of the protocol?

It is to help Staffordshire to work with its schools so that places are found for children whilst ensuring that no school, including those with available places, is asked to take a disproportionate number of children who have been excluded from other schools, or who have challenging behaviour. It is also important that head teachers and partner agencies can work together to make sure each child has the chance to achieve their full potential. 

What is a 'hard to place' child?

The protocol sets out a list of features that would make a child hard to place. Normally these are children who have behaviour or attendance difficulties which means they may need some extra support to help them cope. 

The protocol does not apply to a looked after child or a child with an education, health and care plan (EHCP).  

Does the protocol apply to all schools?

Yes it applies to all schools whether they are community, voluntary aided or academies. 

What happens if a school is full?

An admission under the protocol is not like a normal admission. A school that is full can be asked to admit a child under the protocol. This even overrides the maximum size for infant classes, regardless of whether there is a waiting list in operation and whether appeals have already been heard for the school and year group concerned. 

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