Written question asked by Peter Bone (Conservative) on Tuesday, 20 December 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 January 2006. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Monday, 9 January 2006 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Secondary School Places

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what provision is available to help pupils over the age of 16 but below the age of 18 years to find a secondary school place when they move into a new local education authority.

Answer: There is no statutory duty on local authorities to provide post-16 education via secondary schools. Where they do, it is not necessary for pupils already in the school to apply formally for places in year 12 or year 13, though they may be required to meet specified minimum entry requirements.Legislation gives parents the right to apply for a place for their child at any school providing post-16 education and if refused, they are entitled to appeal.The Learning and Skills Council is responsible for planning and funding post-16 provision in England and has a responsibility under the Learning and Skills Act 2000 to ensure that all young people aged 16 to 18 have access to education or training through a school sixth form, or further education college or an Apprenticeship.

Secondary information