Guides for parents

How school applications work in England, step by step.

• How to apply for a primary school placeStep-by-step guide to applying for a Reception place in England for September 2027: deadline 15 January 2027, offers 16 April 2027.
• How to apply for a secondary school placeStep-by-step guide to applying for a Year 7 place in England for September 2027, including what to do if you've missed the 31 October deadline.
• Grammar schools and the 11+How grammar schools and the 11+ test work in England: registration, test dates, results and applying for September 2027.
• Understanding Ofsted ratings and report cardsWhat Ofsted's old one-word grades and the new report cards mean, the five report card grades, and how to use Ofsted when choosing a school.
• Offer day, waiting lists and appealsWhat to do on National Offer Day (1 March and 16 April 2027), how school waiting lists work, and how to appeal for a school place in England.