Choosing the right school for your child is a stressful time. When you find a good school you’ve still got the worry that your child won’t get a place. This is often a problem if you don’t live in the catchment area or you’re living in a rural area where school places are very limited. If places are over subscribed, your distance from the school is the main criterion that is considered.
Check the local council website to see which schools you like the look of. League tables and Ofsted reports should give you a good picture of the schools performance. A visit can be arranged so you can get a feel of the place. Review the schools admissions policy to make sure your child is eligible for a place at your chosen school to avoid disappointment. If you want to apply for a school place outside of your local council’s area, you still apply through your local council.
Children are given priority based on how near the school they live and whether they have a sibling at the school. If you aren’t offered the place you where after you may be able to appeal.