Not all schools consider exceptional medical or social reasons in their admissions policy.
If you’re applying to a community or voluntary controlled school, Oldham Council will review any evidence you submit. If you're applying to other types of schools (like academies), the Council will pass your evidence to that school for them to decide.
You will be informed of the decision by letter.
Important:
If you want your child to be considered under exceptional medical or social reasons, you must send supporting evidence by the application deadline.
It’s your responsibility to provide this evidence.
The admissions team will not contact doctors or professionals on your behalf—they will only consider what you send in.
If applying online, mention that you’re sending extra evidence and then either post it or email scanned copies to:
School Admissions Team
Oldham Council Offices
Spindles Shopping Centre
West Street
Oldham
OL1 1HD
Email: ecs.pupils@oldham.gov.uk
If your evidence is late, it won’t be considered—unless it relates to a new situation (like a recent diagnosis) that happened after the deadline.
All information will be kept confidential.
If your evidence is not strong enough, your application will be processed using the usual admissions criteria.
Medical Reasons
If your child has a medical need to attend a specific school:
You must provide a letter or report from a qualified professional (like a consultant), and any other relevant documents.
- The evidence must clearly show why only that school can meet your child’s needs.
- Just having a medical condition doesn’t automatically mean your child will get a place.
- The information should explain what your child needs and why other schools can’t provide that support.
Social Reasons
If there are serious social reasons your child should attend a specific school:
You must provide independent evidence from a professional supporting your family (like a social worker or other specialist).
The evidence must explain clearly:
- Why that school is the most suitable for your child.
- What problems would happen if they had to go elsewhere.
- What your child needs and why other schools couldn’t meet those needs.