when do you put childrens name down for school?

[no1putsbabyinthecorner]

I was told today by a friend that I should get my dc name down on a few schools.
dd is 19 month
ds is 5 weeks

I had no idea you had to do it so early.
Also how do you decide?
Do you have a choice?
Or does it go on catchment area?

You have to apply for a place at Reception one year (maybe slightly less in some LEAs) before they are due to start.

It's mostly based on catchment area but other factors may be taken in to consideration.

This is for state primaries btw.

private schools yes

state schools you usually apply a year before as Mercy says

Thanks.