questions about playschool and reception

[lewislewis]

Is a child more likely to get a place at reception if he/she already attends its playschool? i didn't think so, but many experienced local parents tell me that in practice yes it does matter, because the school will know the kid, the parent, etc. What is your experience?

I suppose if there are 2 children after 1 place who both live in the same catchment area and do not have any other links with the school the fact that 1 of them has attended to the nursery attached to the school might swing the placement

although which way it swings obviously depends ont the kid

no i already asked because we are in the process of waiting to hear from a pre school nursery

Local school said preschool had their admissions and school admitted under strict catchment only and when opkaces were full they were full, not even any guaruntees if there was a sibling at same school!!(its a very popular school)

and my kid is a complete nightmare at the moment, so chances are they will not want him!

No, unless it is a Catholic school and the admissions state that prioroty will be given to children attending the nursery then there is no advantage.

Schools have to publish their admissions criteria which usually consist of priority for siblings, being in catchment etc. If there are more catchment pupils then places then it goes on distance from school.

If priority was given to those attending the nursery/playschool then parents of children denied a place would be entitled to appeal and probably win.

but all things being equal .. can't help feeling that a child the school knows will get precedence over one they don't .. all things being equal re catchment area / other criteria

No