Cambridge primary school question

[aka210]

Hi there,

We will be moving to Cambridge this summer from US and our kids will start school in September. I am told that for "in year" school admissions, we need to apply between May 2nd and June 7th, with offers given on July 14th.
Question I have is whether there is any benefit in applying now vs. any time before June 7th?

The reason I ask is that it determines finding accommodation and we would much rather sign a lease starting June 1st (say) than April 1st. However, if it increases our chances to get a school in the catchment area, then we would much rather apply sooner. But if it doesn't make any difference, then we can take our time to find an accommodation but still apply before the June 7th deadline.

We would appreciate any guidance from the experts on how the applications are processed between now and June 7th.

Thanks a lot!

What year are they going into?

This year, sorry September 2024

Sorry if you meant class year - they would be year1 and year3

The most popular schools fill up fast - but if you’re not trying for a reception place there’s no massive benefit to applying early.

I would suggest asking the council via freedom of information which schools have places free in the years you want and then making housing decisions quickly based on that.

If by year 1 though you mean reception - decide where you want and if the school
is oversubscribed you need to get that lease signed asap.