The local position
It was unanimously agreed by the School Admissions Forum in Newham that it may not be in the best interest of all children to start reception a year later than expected.
We will consider each case on an individual basis with the head teachers of their preferred schools and professionals involved with the child, to ensure any decision centres around the needs of the child.
Individual case management
This means there is not a borough wide policy to automatically agree all summer born deferment applications. However, the parent voice (parents’ views) will continue to be a major consideration in the decision making.
The decision will not just focus on the deferment of reception entry, it will include the impact of entry into year one as well as transition to secondary school. Therefore considering the child’s best interests at every stage of their education, rather than focus only on the start.
