Placing a child outside their normal secondary school age group

The year group with which a child is taught has implications for a child's social as well as educational development. We believe it is better for children to stay within their peer group. For children whose attainments either fall significantly below or exceed the expected levels at a particular key stage we consider that in almost all cases a child's individual needs can be met by schools without accelerated or delayed admission to another year group.

Exceptionally a child may be admitted outside of their normal year group.

A decision will be based on the circumstances of each case. Before making a formal request parents are strongly advised in the first instance to discuss the matter with their child's current headteacher, prospective future headteacher and any other professionals involved.

If after discussion, parents then wish to make a formal request they should contact us for a copy of our policy on the admission of children outside of their normal age group, email: admissions.transport@derbyshire.gov.uk or tel: 01629 537479.

Requests should be accompanied by evidence to show that the child's admission outside of their normal age group is in the child's best interests.

All relevant factors will be considered when assessing requests against our policy on the admission of children outside of their normal age group.

If a request is not agreed then a place may be offered in another year group.