Applying for a secondary school place is a crucial step for parents and children, as it determines the educational environment in which students will spend their teenage years.
As the application process may vary depending on the school and region, parents and guardians need to understand the admission criteria, deadlines and available options for their child.

When applying for secondary school, parents should familiarise themselves with the local council’s application procedures and guidelines and be aware of any specific requirements for the schools they are interested in.
Having a clear understanding of the application process, waiting lists and appeals will help ensure that the transition from primary to secondary education is as smooth as possible.
Key Takeaways
- Familiarise yourself with the local council’s application procedures and guidelines
- Research and understand requirements for specific schools you are interested in
- Be prepared for possible waiting lists and appeals after submitting your application
Understanding the Admissions Process
Key Dates and Deadlines
The admissions process for secondary schools in the UK begins when children enter Year 6 of primary school.
Applications open at the start of the autumn term, and parents have until the 31 October 2023 to submit their secondary school applications. The deadline for applying to grammar schools differs and may require registration during the summer term of Year 5.
After applications have been submitted, the National Offer Day takes place on 1 March 2024, when parents will receive offers from chosen schools. Following offers, parents can accept, decline, or appeal decisions.
Admissions Criteria
Each school has its own admissions policy that sets out specific criteria used for allocating places. Common criteria include:
- Catchment area: the geographical location in which the school prioritizes applicants
- Siblings attend the school: preference is given to applicants with a brother or sister already enrolled in the school
- Faith: faith schools may prioritize applicants of the same religion
- Academic ability: selective schools may require passing an entrance exam or meeting specific academic requirements
- Special educational needs: schools may prioritize applicants with a statement of special education needs
It is essential to review each school’s admissions policy to understand any specific admissions criteria.
The Role of Local Authorities
Local authorities play a crucial role in managing and administering the admissions process.
They ensure schools follow the Admissions Code and maintain transparency and fairness throughout the process. Parents complete online applications through their local authority’s website, which then coordinates with schools to allocate places.
Local authorities also manage waiting lists for oversubscribed schools, provide information on available places in local schools, and handle appeals for unsuccessful applications.
By understanding key dates, admissions criteria, and the role of local authorities, parents can confidently navigate the secondary school admissions process, maximizing their child’s chances of securing a place at a preferred school.
Starting the Application
Registering Online
To begin the application process for secondary school, visit the GOV.UK website. From there, you’ll be directed to your local council’s website, where you’ll need to register for a school admissions account.
Registering is usually a simple process involving providing your name, email address and creating a password. After completing the registration, you will receive a confirmation email. Remember to check your spam folder if you don’t see the email in your inbox.
Completing the Application Form
Once you’ve registered online, you can complete the application form. It’s essential to provide accurate information about you and your child, such as addresses, contact details, and your child’s current primary school.
Additionally, you might be required to provide proof of residency or other documentation. Read the instructions carefully and provide all the necessary documents to avoid delays or issues with the application.
Selecting School Preferences
The next step in the application process is to choose your preferred secondary schools. You can typically list multiple school preference options in your application.
Research the available schools in your area and consider factors such as location, academic performance, and extracurricular activities before selecting.
When listing your preferences, you’ll need to rank them in order of preference. Your local council will consider your preferences along with the schools’ admission criteria when allocating places.
Keep in mind that there’s no guarantee that your child will be offered a place at your most preferred school, but it’s important to submit a balanced list of realistic preferences.
Once you’ve completed the application form and selected your school preferences, submit your application before the deadline.
The deadline for secondary school applications is usually around the end of October in the year prior to starting secondary school. Remember to keep track of your application progress through your local authority website.
Applying for secondary school can be a straightforward process if you follow the provided guidelines and submit your application on time.
Involve your child in the selection process, and together you can make an informed decision about their future education.
After Submission: Offers and Appeals
Receiving the Offer Letter
Once the application for secondary school has been submitted, parents and guardians will receive an offer letter with the school’s decision on a specific offer day.
This letter will inform them of the secondary school their child has been offered a place in. It’s important to carefully read and understand the content of the offer letter and any instructions provided.
If the child is not offered a place at any of their preferred schools, they will automatically be placed on a waiting list for their top preference.
It is highly recommended to accept the offered place, even if it’s not the first choice. This will secure a spot for the child while they wait for a place in their preferred school.
Understanding the Appeals Process
If parents or guardians are unhappy with the school admissions decision, they can appeal the decision.
The appeals process consists of completing an appeal form and submitting it by the deadline. Upon submission, an appeal hearing will be scheduled with an admissions panel.
The panel will be made up of three or more independent members who will review the case presented by both the school’s admission authority and the parent.
They will then decide whether the school should admit the child. If the appeals panel decides to uphold the appeal, the school’s admission authority must offer the child a place.
When preparing for the appeal hearing, parents should gather any supporting documents and evidence to strengthen their case and clearly present the reasons why their child should be admitted to the preferred school.
It is crucial to abide by the deadline for making an appeal and to remain patient and respectful throughout the process.
Keep in mind that although the appeals panel is there to help, they may not always rule in the parents’ favour. Remaining confident, knowledgeable, and clear in presenting your reasons can go a long way in ensuring a successful outcome.
Special Considerations
When applying for secondary school places, it is important to be aware of the special considerations that may apply to different types of schools.
In this section, we will discuss two notable areas: “Faith Schools and Selection by Aptitude” and “Children with Special Educational Needs.”
Faith Schools and Selection by Aptitude
Many secondary schools in the UK have specific admissions criteria which take into account the applicant’s religious background or aptitude for a particular subject. For example, faith schools may give priority to applicants belonging to a certain religion, or require attendance at a specific place of worship.
In the case of fair banding or selection by aptitude, some schools, such as grammar schools, may use entrance tests to evaluate a child’s potential in a specific subject area.
This can include academic abilities, such as maths or English, or other areas, such as sport or music. Be sure to research the admissions criteria and testing requirements for the schools you are interested in.
When considering these factors, it is essential to keep in mind:
- The specific requirements of the schools you are applying to, such as religious affiliation or aptitude tests
- How your child meets these requirements
- Double-checking that your child is eligible for the schools in question
Children with Special Educational Needs
The application process differs slightly for students with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
An EHCP is a legal document that outlines the student’s special educational needs and the support they require. When applying to a secondary school for a child with an EHCP, the following factors should be taken into account:
- Siblings: If the child has siblings at the same school, this may affect their chances of acceptance, as schools often prioritise siblings.
- Distance: The distance between the child’s home and the school plays a crucial role in determining admission priority. Some schools prioritise applicants living within their catchment area.
- Support: Ensure that the school can provide the necessary support as outlined in the child’s EHCP.
It is crucial to communicate with your local authority when applying for secondary school places for children with special educational needs. Engage early with the school to guarantee your child receives support and accommodations.
Preparing for Transition
As your child prepares to move from primary to secondary school, parents and children must understand the application process and make the most out of the transition period.
In the UK, the secondary school application process typically begins in Year 6, and parents should be proactive in gathering information and helping children settle into their new environment.
To apply for a secondary school place, you should follow your local council’s application process and submit all required documents before the deadline.
It’s crucial to familiarise yourself with the schools available in your area and consider factors such as location, school facilities, and academic performance when making your choice.
Transitioning to secondary school can be an exciting yet challenging phase for children. To help your child cope with these changes, consider the following:
- Discuss with your child about their feelings and concerns regarding the transition, and offer reassurance and support.
- Attend open days and events at your chosen schools together in order to explore the environment, facilities, and meet the staff.
- Encourage them to maintain friendships from primary school, whilst also developing new relationships with their secondary school peers.
For children entering secondary school in September 2023 or September 2024, preparations should begin as early as possible. Here are a few practical tips to help your child adapt to their new school:
- Organisation: Teach them how to use a planner or calendar to keep track of their homework and activities.
- Familiarity: Engage in conversations about the school’s layout, teachers, and subjects to help them feel more comfortable.
- Independence: Guide them in taking responsibility for their own belongings and managing their time effectively.
While parents cannot entirely circumvent the challenges that come with the transition, being aware and helping your child prepare for secondary school will support a smoother, more enjoyable experience.
Remember, your child’s well-being is a top priority, and offering support and guidance throughout this significant change can create a positive foundation for their secondary education journey.