From primary to secondary

[fortheloveoftoast]

Just looking for some clarification after some conflicting answers in the school mums group chat as to when we are to apply for our chosen secondary schools?
Is it when the children are heading towards the end of Y5 or is it Y6 you can apply? Will we be notified as to when we can apply?

Beginning of Year 6.
Your school should tell you how you do it. The open days for secondaries usually take place in the September.
If there is anything you don't understand on the form ASK YOUR PRIMARY SCHOOL - do not rely on frequently incorrect information from WhatsApp groups (or places like Mumsnet).

Ah thank you, I did think it may be Y6 but then some say Y5 depending on circumstances. Do you know if it's earlier for SEN kids?

Assuming you are in England, the deadline will be October 31st.

Applications normally open around sept 1, though that date is council specific. Your local council should have the date on their website; normally applications are submitted online.

Your school should prompt you, but it is your responsibility to do it by the deadline.

If your child has an EHCP the process is different yes, but only if they have one. These name a school and the child doesn't go through the normal application process.

Further to the previous answer, if no EHCP it may still be possible to apply under "exceptional medical or social need" criteria.

Schools do not have to have this criteria, so you need to check if the ones you are thinking of applying to have it.

Applying under this category does not affect the timetable. You would typically need to click a box on the main form to show that you are applying under that category AND you will need to supply additional supporting documentation so a panel can consider if you meet the threshold (it should be clear from the accompanying information notes how and by when you do this - make sure you get a receipt). It is not simply a case of stating that the SEN exists, you also need to show why the school is particularly well-placed to meet the need. And you'll need that from relevant professionals, as parental assertion alone will carry little weight

If you live in a grammar area you may need to register for the test in the Summer of year 5.