Placing request refused in Scotland: what parents should check
Parents and young people can make placing requests, but the appeal route after refusal depends on the type of school and whether CSP issues are involved.
Scotland uses the Additional Support for Learning framework. A Co-ordinated Support Plan (CSP) is not the Scottish equivalent of an EHCP for every learner; it has specific statutory criteria.
Read the refusal carefully
Identify the statutory ground relied on and the appeal information supplied with the decision.
Use the correct route
Some refusals involving special schools or CSP matters can go to the Tribunal; other placing-request refusals may go to an education appeal committee and then potentially the sheriff court.
Prepare placement evidence
Connect the requested placement to the learner’s needs and required support, and address the reason given for refusal.
Official and authoritative sources
Scottish Government — Supporting Children’s Learning Code of Practice (2026)
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