Enrol your child in a school outside your catchment area

Appealing a decision

If a placing request is refused, the decision letter will outline how to make an appeal.

Appeal routes

You can make an initial appeal to an Appeal Committee established by Highland Council.

Special circumstances

If your child is subject to assessment for a Coordinated Support Plan (CSP), or if the school is a special school, your appeal should be made to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Health and Education Chamber).

What happens during an appeal

When you appeal, you will be informed of the reasons for the refusal. You will then have the opportunity to:

  • present your case in person, or
  • appoint a representative to speak on your behalf

Further appeals

If the Appeal Committee rejects your appeal, you can appeal to the Sheriff Court within 28 days.

If your child has Additional Support Needs and the Tribunal also refuses your appeal, you may then appeal on a point of law to the Court of Session.

Page last modified: 24 July 2025