Guiding you through the admissions process

Help filling in the form, preferencing schools, what to do if you are moving house, and other special circumstances that might affect your application.

A woman typing on a laptop with a cup of coffee.

Filling in the common application form

Tips and advice on filling in the school admissions form, advice on listing schools in order of preference, and how to make changes.

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Which address to use when applying for a school place

Advice about permanent residence, what to do if you move house, applying to schools across county boundaries, and arriving from overseas.

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Special circumstances for school admissions

Guidance for separated families, looked after children, social, medical or special educational needs, Armed Forces families, and more.

Small girls writing in a school in North Yorkshire.

What age do children start school?

Usually, children start reception the September after their fourth birthday. However, applications can sometimes be deferred.