Before you apply for a secondary or high school place, see the Frequently Asked Questions below:
See the full FAQ document here: Secondary or High school Frequently Asked Questions 2025-2026 (PDF)
Which school can your child attend?
The local authority must allow parents to state their preference for a school, but parents don't have an absolute right to choose. It's important to check the catchment area school for your address.
You may apply for other schools, including academy, foundation, free or voluntary aided schools, some important things to note:
- if you get a place at your preferred school, it doesn鈥檛 guarantee that younger siblings will also get in
- applications made on time will take precedence over late ones
- remember to consider how your child will travel to school, see: School and college travel for information
How do you apply for a place at a High School?
Parents of all pupils in 茄子视频 must apply online by the deadline stated. Late applications are less likely to be successful. If you can't apply online, call 01905 822700 for help. Please note:
- you can choose three preferences, and each will be considered equally
- make sure you understand each school's admission criteria before applying
- if you want a place at a school outside 茄子视频 or a special type of school (like an Academy), contact them directly for further information
It is very important that applications are received no later than the deadline stated
Late applications are always considered, but if the school is oversubscribed then you may not get your preferred choice, even if the school is the catchment area your child鈥檚 home address.
You should inform the Headteacher of the allocated school, and School Admissions if you are withdrawing your application for any reason. School Admissions and the Headteacher must be notified immediately of any change in the child鈥檚 home address.
Why do I have to put three preferences on the application form?
While you don't have to use all three preferences, it's a good idea. If your first choice is full, you might get your second choice or the nearest school with a place.
My child lives outside 茄子视频. What should I do?
Apply through your home Local Authority and include your preference for 茄子视频 schools on their application form.
What if my application is late or I want to change it?
Late applications are processed after on-time ones, so you may not get your preferred school. If moving house, provide evidence of your new address.
How do I apply after the deadline?
You can submit a late application form during an allocated time after the deadline. Contact 01905 822700 if you can't apply online.
What if I am moving house?
If moving, you must provide evidence of your new address before the application deadline. Late applications due to moving will be considered based on the circumstances.
Who decides which school places are given?
For community and voluntary controlled schools, the local authority decides. For other schools, like academies, the school鈥檚 governing body makes the decision.
How are places allocated?
Each school uses its own admission criteria. If you get offers from multiple schools, you鈥檒l be offered the highest-ranked one on your application.
What if we鈥檙e moving into a new area?
Contact the new local authority or schools as soon as possible. Provide proof of your move and check the guidelines for admissions outside the usual round.
How many children can be admitted to each school?
Each school has a limit known as the Published Admission Number (PAN). This is the maximum number of children they can admit in a year.
How can my child be placed on a waiting list if the school is full?
If you鈥檙e not offered a place at your preferred school, you'll be automatically added to the waiting list. For Academy or Voluntary Aided Schools, contact them directly to check the waiting list process.