DD starting reception in September 2025

[MCE1]

Hi all,

Hoping someone can help shed some light on the registration process for signing up DD for reception/primary school for Sept 2025.

I know that the deadline to register choices is early January 2025, but I have no idea at this point (and probably not by January '25) where DD and I will be based/living come September '25.

Anyone had a similar experience and can share what they did? Can I register for multiple schools in different locations? Do I need to have proof of address when I apply? I know that it'll either be in East or North London, or maybe even Kent, but that really doesn't narrow it down and the catchment areas for some of the areas I'm looking at are really small! If I register for schools but then change mind/area come Sept '25 what does a late sign-up process look like?

The background context to this is that DD and I will be moving into my mum's for a few months following a split between Ex and I. It's only going to be a temporary situation, and I don't think I'd want to stay in the area my mum lives for too long. I'm worried that I need to know where I will be moving to in time for the registration date/settling DD and getting to know potential parents/children from the same nurseries who would then move into reception... or does that really matter?

Any advice gratefully received!

You can only use the address you reside at in January, but apply for any schools you choose in England. There may be a short window to update an address and the application still be considered as on time, that would be on the LA website. If you also update your choices it may become a late application, only considered after the April allocations are made. If you apply in January you are most likely to get a place local-to the address registered then.