The council is looking at a new option to resolve the secondary admissions issue. It is considering Free School Meals Banding, which ensures those with the greatest need get the greatest assistance, no matter where in the city they live.

The distance system is retained but quotas give priority access to children on Free School Meals (FSM).

The percentage of children on FSM is evened out around all schools, giving a more balanced intake, which should please concerned parents.

This ensures local children always get into local schools but those in deprived areas who live too far from any school have a helping hand to access schools of their choice. It also encourages some poorer families to take up their entitlement to Free School Meals.

How can anyone argue with this?

  • Mark Bannister, Withdean Crescent, Brighton