Keep the record while the process is live
Grammar school admissions can involve a test registration, a result, a CAF submission, an offer, waiting lists and sometimes an appeal. These steps may be handled by different bodies.
Good records reduce stress when a deadline or disagreement appears. They also help you prove what was submitted and when.
What to keep
- Test registration confirmation and reference number.
- Result letters or portal screenshots.
- CAF submission confirmation.
- Offer email or letter.
- Waiting-list and appeal correspondence.
- Admissions policies for the schools you named.
- Address evidence if a school uses distance or priority area.
- Medical, educational or exceptional-circumstance evidence if relevant.
Example
A family believes a school has measured distance incorrectly. It is much easier to raise the issue if they have the offer letter, policy, address evidence and earlier correspondence in one place.
Keep it simple
One folder is enough. Use clear file names with dates, and keep emails as well as screenshots. The aim is not paperwork for its own sake; it is being able to answer quickly if a school, council or appeal panel asks what happened.