THE headteacher of a York school has moved to reassure parents concerned about the future of their children's education.

A group of pupils at Bishopthorpe Junior School in Copmanthorpe Lane, Bishopthorpe, has not been offered places at Tadcaster Grammar School due to pressure on places, although 31 children from the village have been accepted there for the next school year.

Head teacher Dean Beecham said concerned parents had come to see him, but he had reassured them that they would be able to appeal against the decision - and he feels the appeal has a good chance of being successful.

A spokesman for North Yorkshire County Council said 357 pupils were competing for 250 places at the school. Of the 107 not offered places a small number lived within the area the school serves, including Bishopthorpe. They missed out because they live furthest away.

The problem has also affected Easingwold School, which is not accepting any children from York this year. Although York is not in Easingwold's catchment area the school has traditionally accepted pupils from the city.

Mr Beecham said: "There is a small group of children who have not been allocated a place at Tadcaster it would appear, when they have had Tadcaster down as first choice.

"It's an upsetting thing for children to not know where they are going. Parents have leave to appeal and if Tadcaster is so keen to get Bishopthorpe and Copmanthorpe children then the appeals will be upheld."

Councillor Chris Metcalfe, executive member for the North Yorkshire education authority, said the decision was not taken lightly. He said: "There has been no discrimination against York children. We have not offered places to those living furthest away, and all have a right of appeal."

Updated: 10:27 Saturday, March 02, 2002