Secondary school is looming for many (Picture: Getty Images)
The new school year may be just getting underway, but many parents and students will already be thinking about the next academic year, specifically those who’ll be changing schools.
Students who are starting year 6 this September will be heading to secondary school next year – with the process of applying for the school of their choice set to kick off very soon.
Moving to secondary school marks a significant life change, and you’ll want to make sure you choose the best one for your child’s education.
But when do you need to apply by and how does the process work?
Here’s what you need to know…
What is the deadline to apply for secondary school?
If you’re applying for a place for secondary school for your child, you’ll need to get the application in by Tuesday October 31.
If you miss the deadline your child is less likely to get a place at the school or schools of your choice, as there may be a delay in considering the application.
This applies to those applying for secondary schools in England – the process is different in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The process differs if you’re applying for a place in a sixth-form school or college, or you’re applying for private school.
In that instance you should contact the school or college directly to apply.
How do you apply for a secondary school place?
You can apply for a secondary school place for your child via Gov.uk
You can enter your postcode to be taken to your local council website, from where you should be able to apply directly.
If you want to fill in a paper application form you should request this from your local council.
Your child won’t necessarily get a place at their first choice school (Picture: Getty Images)
You will be able to list up to five schools of your choice in the application in order of preference, although there is no guarantee that your child will receive a place at your first choice.
Listing only one school in the application will not increase your chances of getting a place there.
While it’s common for parents to choose schools within their catchment area when applying, there are no rules against applying for a school further afield (for example if you want to send your child to a faith school in another area, or there is another specific school you’ve set your heart on).
However, you should bear in mind that students who do live within the catchment area, or who already have a sibling at the school, are likely to be prioritised.
When will secondary school places be confirmed?
Councils will send out offers of secondary school places on March 1 2024.
If the date falls on a weekend or bank holiday, offers will be sent on the next working day.
Secondary school marks a big life change (Picture: Getty Images)
You have to accept the place offered by the deadline in the offer letter, or it may be withdrawn and offered to someone else.
If your child is not offered a place at any of the schools on your list, the council is obliged to find them a place elsewhere.
This is normally at the nearest school which still has places available.
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