Half of state schools flouting admissions rules

Half of state schools in England are flouting admissions rules leaving potentially thousands of children without places. By Graeme Paton, Education Editor A major inquiry has unearthed "widespread" breaches of laws governing how children are allocated places primary and secondary schools. Faith schools are among the worst offenders, with many illegally asking parents for information about their occupation and marital status. The findings in a report by Sir Philip Hunter, the Chief Adjudicator of Schools, will be delivered to the Government next month. It was commissioned following controversial claims from Ed Balls, the Schools Secretary, that many faith schools were effectively weeding out pupils from poor homes by asking parents for cash contributions. Speaking today, Sir Philip said "about half" of schools and local... [read full story]