Parent Link helpline – education and school admissions
Free, confidential and impartial advice on educational matters, for parents with school-age children.
Lines are open from 9.30am – 3pm weekdays, with an extension until 7pm on Wednesdays during term time. Outside of those hours, please leave a message.
Advisors will call you back if necessary and personal appointments can be made.
School admissions
Parent Link can help with a wide range of questions such as:
- how are the decisions made?
- what do I do if I haven’t got my first choice?
- where can I find out more information, such as Ofsted reports?
- who’s the best person to approach with my query?
- how can I get help with meals, transport or special needs?
- can someone help me with entry procedures or late applications?
- I don’t understand this form – can someone talk it through with me?
- how can I visit the visit the school I have been allocated?
- how can I make the transition from primary to secondary school as smooth as possible?
Advisers will be able to call you back or make personal appointments if necessary.
For more complex enquiries, you may be referred to the Admissions and Transport Team.
Could you become a volunteer adviser?
Trained volunteers become Independent Parent Supporters. Their role is vital, helping parents to make informed decisions and to play an active part in their child’s education, especially for those who have children with special needs.
Typically, tasks might include home visits, accompanying the parent to meetings at school, helping with forms and letters, providing information and helping parents explore their options. In 2006, the volunteer team helped over 150 families.
Parent Link will provide specialist training on a flexible, individual basis.
Volunteers find it can fit in well around other commitments. Full expenses are paid, and you can develop skills and career options whilst really helping people.
You could be a Parent Link volunteer if you:
- are good at listening and communicating
- want to help ensure a good education for children – particularly those with special educational needs or disabilities
- are available during school times a few hours a week or fortnight
- can complete the recruitment process (interview, references, criminal record check, training)
- are prepared to attend training sessions and regular supervision sessions.
Find out more on the Parent Link website.
