Since problems in relation to primary school places in the East Dulwich area first came to Tessa's attention in early May she has been in regular contact with parents who have been in touch with my office and met with a group of 16 parents in early June.

Tessa has been working with parents this year in order to put pressure on Southwark Council to listen to parents' concerns about the offers they have been made and about the manner in which Southwark has handled their enquiries, and to ensure that these parents are given the opportunity to discuss their concerns directly with local councillors and with Cllr Nick Stanton, Leader of Southwark Council.

Tessa Jowell commented: 'From discussing this matter with parents, and having followed their own individual cases for a number of weeks, it seems there is a clear problem of a lack of suitable school places in the area. However, this fact is compounded by the stories of indifference and bureaucratic obstacles faced by many parents when they have contacted Southwark for assistance.

'We need progress and clarity on two issues. First, we need more local primary places for East Dulwich. Second, Southwark has to learn the lessons from neighbouring Education Authorities, such as Lewisham and Lambeth, on how to advise, inform and support parents in what is, for so many, a fraught and anxious time.'

If you are experiencing problems in relation to securing a suitable primary school place for your son or daughter please do contact Tessa's office. She can offer support and can put you in contact with the parents' group with whom she has been working closely.

Attached below are the contact details for the Advisory Centre for Education, a national charity which provides information and advice to parents on matters such as admissions which many parents have found useful.

http://www.ace-ed.org.uk/ -

Their general advice line is 0808 500 5793.

Tessa said 'I fully understand how important it is that parents feel the primary school place they have been offered is both practical and suitable. It is also crucial that parents feel the system is fair and transparent and that the choices they make are based on reliable and accurate information. I will continue to fight both for parents this year and for future years'.