How do I apply in Birmingham?

[AnnaK]

I come from Derbyshire where applications for schools were based on catchment area. I am very confused about what happens in Birmigham - something about applying in the November before the September they start. Why? Anyone know...?

Hi, My DD starts infant school in September. I had to apply by December 9th last year. The Education Authority sent the forms in the September before this (based on name and address on GP list). Then I could apply for up to three schools. The Education Authority then applies the catchment rules and any faith rules to all the applications in Birmingham. We got to hear the result in March. It was very efficient, and seems a fair system. Explained here: \link{http://www.bgfl.org/services/admissions/starting.htm/
Before the application date a lot of schools have open days, so you can look around and make an informed choice. Whereabouts in Birmingham are you (I'm in Kings Heath).

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Trying again!!
Birmingham

Im in Tyseley

My ds starts reception in September so you would think I would know the answer to this question... but I dont

We just filled in a form with our perfered schools and posted it and they wrote back to tell us where he would be going.

Its exactly as MumtoLaura said. They use the details that are registered at your Dr's, as they have a lot of problems with people fibbing about where they live to get into "better" schools (So why can't my Dd get into the school 900 metres away, but can get into one 3948 metres away (she starts september tooo...I AM PEGGING IT)???). I am in Hodge Hill btw

Thanks everyone. We live in Rowley Regis but will have to move as the schools here aren't great. The deadline to move and register with a GP is December then!

They take applications until Feb if you move house.