Some of England’s most vulnerable children are blocked from their chosen schools with local authorities claiming that leaders are using delay tactics to deter applications – and even snubbing bids. This week the admissions watchdog, the Office of the Schools Adjudicator, said councils believe youngsters currently and previously in care were well served by the admissions system in 2024-25, with first preferences secured in a “very large number of cases”. But research by the Universities of Exeter and Oxford revealed local authorities believed there was “a widespread reluctance” to admit these pupils. Become a member for unlimited access to Schools Week Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits. subscribe If you have an account, please login. Sign in