Ready to Apply for Primary School?

Starting school is a big milestone for your child and applying for primary school can feel like one too! From visiting schools and reading Ofsted reports to completing your online application, there’s a lot to think about.

This practical guide explains everything you need to know about how to apply for primary school, including what to look for on school visits, how to interpret inspection reports, and the all-important 15 January application deadline.

 

Why Visiting Schools Matters

Choosing the right school is about more than league tables or location. When you visit in person, you get a sense of the atmosphere, the staff, and how happy the children seem,  all key things when you’re deciding where to apply for primary school.

Here’s what to do when visiting schools:

• Attend open days or tours early in the autumn term.
• Watch how teachers and pupils interact. Are children engaged and confident?
• Ask questions like:
  • “How do you help children settle into Reception?”
  • “What does a typical day look like?”
  • “How do you communicate with parents?”
• Think practically: How easy is the journey? Are there breakfast or after-school clubs?
• Most importantly, trust your instincts.

Visiting several schools will help you decide which feel right before you complete your primary school application form.

 

Understanding Ofsted Reports

When you apply for primary school, Ofsted reports can be a helpful guide to understanding a school’s quality and ethos.

What the grades mean:

• Outstanding: exceptional quality of education and leadership.
• Good: a strong, well-run school.
• Requires Improvement: some areas need work but progress is being made.
  
• Inadequate: major concerns raised.

 

These are due to change in November 2025 to

• Exceptional
• Strong standard
• Expected standard
• Needs attention
• Urgent improvement

 

What to look for:

• The date of the inspection (a newer report is more reliable).
• Comments about behaviour, inclusion, and early years provision.
• How do leaders respond to feedback, are they improving and proactive?

 

What it doesn’t show:

• Personality! Every school feels different and only you know what is right for your child and your family. 
• Community, creativity, and happiness, these matter just as much.

Before you apply, download each school’s latest Ofsted report from its website or the official Ofsted portal, and note anything you’d like to ask about on your visit.

 

How to Apply for Primary School

Now for the admin! All applications for state primary schools are handled by your local authority (council). The process is straightforward once you know what to expect.

Key Dates

• Applications open: Usually September or October each year
• Deadline: 15 January (for your child to start school the following September)]
• Offer day: Around 16 April

If you miss the 15 January deadline, your application will be classed as late, which can affect your chance of getting your preferred school.

 

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Find your local authority’s admissions page. You’ll apply online through their secure portal.
2. Create an account (if you haven’t before).
3. List your preferred schools:  most councils let you choose 3–6 options.
4. Check each school’s admissions policy. Some faith or academy schools need an extra form (called a Supplementary Information Form).
5. Submit before 15 January. You’ll receive confirmation that your application has been received.
6. Wait for National Offer Day (April) when you’ll find out which school your child has been allocated.

Helpful Tips

• Use all your preference slots, naming only one school won’t improve your chances.
• Make sure your home address is correct by the deadline.
• Check catchment areas and sibling rules carefully.
• Submit any supporting evidence (e.g. baptism certificates for faith schools) before the deadline.

 

Timeline at a Glance

September – November: Visit schools and read Ofsted reports.

November – January: Complete your online form to apply for primary school.

15 January: Final day to submit your application.

April (Offer Day): Receive your school offer.

Summer Term: Prepare for starting school.

 

Common Questions from Parents

Q: How many schools can I list when I apply for primary school?
Most councils allow three to six choices. Always use them all, it increases your chances of being allocated one you like.

Q: What if my preferred school is oversubscribed?
You’ll automatically be added to the waiting list for any higher-ranked schools than the one you were offered. You can also appeal if you think the admissions criteria weren’t applied correctly.

Q: What if I’m moving house?
Your address at the closing date (15 January) is usually what counts. If you move after this, update your council immediately, but your application might be processed as late.

Q: How do I apply for primary school places for twins or siblings?
List both children on the same application. Siblings usually get priority, but check the school’s admission policy to be sure.

Q: What if my child has special educational needs?
You can still apply through the usual route, but also speak to your council’s SEND team and check each school’s SEND provision before applying.  If any needs have been identified while your child is at nursery then we will help you to think about a school which is right for your child.  We will guide you through all of the processes required and support you to complete any expected paperwork to enable your child to attend the school that suits their needs and requirements.

 

Preparing for the Transition

While you’re waiting for Offer Day, there’s plenty you can do to get your child ready for school life:

• Talk about what happens at “big school” stories, uniform shopping, practice routines.
• Encourage independence: toileting, dressing, putting on coats and shoes.
• Visit the park or playgroups to build confidence around new friends.
• Read books about starting school together.

Your child’s nursery team will also help with transition, they’ll share reports with the new school and make sure teachers know your child’s strengths, interests, and any support they might need.

 

Key Takeaways

• Deadline: Apply for primary school by 15 January (for September starts).
• Visit schools early: Attend open days and ask plenty of questions.
• Read Ofsted reports: Look beyond the grade to the details.
• Apply online: Through your local authority website.
• Use all your preferences: To maximise your options.
• Prepare early: Keep documents ready and plan ahead for transition.

 

How to Apply for Primary School with Confidence

Applying for primary school can seem like a big job, but breaking it down into steps makes it far more manageable. Visit the schools, read their reports, talk to other parents, and trust your instincts, you know your child best.

Most importantly, don’t leave it until the last minute! The primary school application deadline is 15 January, and once you’ve submitted it, you can relax knowing you’ve done everything you can to secure the right start for your child.

For more details on how to apply for primary school, visit your local council’s admissions page or talk to your nursery team, we’re always here to help guide you through the process.