Evidence before assumptions
Grammar school appeals: what the published figures can and cannot tell you
An admission appeal is a legal challenge to a refused school place. The national headline is useful context, but the evidence and decision are specific to the school, the child and the reason for refusal.
27,100
secondary appeals heard in England for 2026 entry
19.5%
of all secondary appeals heard were successful
3.6%
of estimated secondary admissions reached a hearing
The two issues a grammar appeal may need to address
- 1
Academic qualification
If the child did not reach the selective standard, the panel may first need persuasive academic evidence and relevant evidence explaining why the test did not reflect their ability. Local review rules can restrict what the appeal panel may reconsider.
- 2
Prejudice and the case for this school
Where the child qualified but no place was offered, the panel weighs the school's case that another admission would cause prejudice against the parent's reasons for needing that particular school.
Before lodging an appeal
- Read the refusal letter and the school's determined admission arrangements.
- Check the deadline and whether a selection or headteacher review applies.
- Separate evidence of academic ability from reasons for needing this school.
- Keep the offered place while the appeal is pending unless official guidance says otherwise.
This is general information, not legal advice. Figures come from the Department for Education's 2026 admission appeals release and Buckinghamshire Council's published 2025 results. Always use the current deadline and procedure stated in your refusal letter.