Use this guide if your child is due to start primary school or move to secondary school in England. You need your child's birth certificate details, proof of address and a list of schools you are considering; rules differ in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Step by step
Check the deadline
In England the national closing date is 31 October for secondary school places and 15 January for primary school places. Check your council's website for exact dates and any local differences.
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