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How to change the published admission number (PAN)

If you’re the admissions authority for your school, be clear on what you need to do if you want to increase, decrease or admit above the PAN. Know when you can be directed to do so by your local authority.

Last reviewed on 29 May 2024
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 4198
Contents
  1. Be clear on whether you're the admission authority
  2. Increasing the PAN
  3. You can admit above the PAN, or be directed to do so
  4. If you want to reduce the PAN
  5. The schools adjudicator process

Be clear on whether you're the admission authority

Most of this article is aimed at boards who are the admission authority for their school(s).

Type of schoolAdmission authority
AcademyAcademy trust (the board of trustees)*
Foundation schoolGoverning board
Voluntary aided schoolGoverning board
Community schoolLocal authority
Voluntary controlled schoolLocal authority

This is outlined in paragraph 11 on page 6 of the School Admissions Code.

* If you sit on a local governing body in a multi-academy trust (MAT), check your scheme of delegation to see if you have any responsibilities regarding admissions.

Increasing the PAN

You're not required to have a consultation

But many schools still choose to have a consultation when considering increasing their published admission number (PAN). 

Regardless, you must:

  • Notify your local authority (LA) 
  • Make reference to any changes to your PAN on your school website

Community and voluntary controlled schools: your