Overview
As a Panel Member, you contribute to fair school admission decisions by reviewing case evidence with a panel. You work remotely, hearing appeals during term-time and collaborating with an independent Clerk for guidance on law and procedure. This volunteer role supports families and helps ensure transparent, evidence-based outcomes. You join a flexible pool that values impartiality, teamwork, and thoughtful questioning to uphold due process and equity in admissions.
Pay / Benefits
- training on legislation and processes
- mentoring by current panel members
- tech support for Teams hearings
- flexible volunteering around commitments
- remote hearings
- inclusion-focused recruitment
Responsibilities
- Hear and decide on school admission appeal cases with other Panel members
- Work remotely during hearings with support from an independent Clerk
- Ask probing, sensitive questions and weigh evidence to reach fair decisions
- Follow established legal guidance and procedures in and after hearings
- Be available for initial observation, mandatory training, and ongoing update training
- Ensure decisions are balanced and grounded in the facts, while maintaining calm under pressure
Key requirements
- Strong sense of fair play and impartiality
- Good communication, listening and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work in a team while expressing an individual view
- Ability to ask probing questions sensitively
- Excellent attention to detail
- Ability to balance arguments and base decisions on facts
- Calm under pressure in emotional situations
- Access to technology to join Microsoft Teams meetings
- Experience in the education sector or governance (desirable)
- Experience in chairing or working with committees (desirable)
- impartiality
- effective communication
- active listening
- team collaboration
- emotional intelligence
- Microsoft Teams
Portsmouth Independent Appeals Service (IAS) – Panel Members employer: Portsmouth City Council
Portsmouth City Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive work culture that prioritises respect, integrity, and collaboration. As a SEN Team Leader, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people with special educational needs, while benefiting from professional development opportunities and a supportive team environment. Located in the vibrant city of Portsmouth, this role offers a unique chance to contribute to strategic SEND developments and be part of a forward-thinking organisation committed to service improvement and community well-being.
