Moving back to the UK & applications

[newmum1292]

My daughter and I are due to move back to the UK in June. We have a UK home address now but will be relocating. She is born Oct 2019 so would be starting Year 1 in Sept 2025. She is currently enrolled at an international school abroad (KG2). From my understanding I cannot apply now (and meet the Jan 15 deadline) because I do not have an address in the catchment area I will be moving to. On results/offer day in April I will likely have a rental agreement in place at least but my daughter will not be in the UK.

Does this mean I can only apply for her in June once she has physically moved to the UK? Any experience with this?

Additionally, since the school year ends abroad in June but at the end of July in the UK will they accept a Year 1 application in June or will she be obliged to be at a school (for reception) from June until end of July?

I'm so worried I feel like my kiddo will end up at a horrible school! Argh!

The January deadline is irrelevant for late Reception/year 1 entry. When you relocate you make an In Year application and hope a place is available either because the school is undersubscribed in the year group or you are top of waiting list. Infant class sizes are restricted to 30 so many will be full unless a pupil leaves.

Yes I was erroneously told by someone at a city council that everyone applies for that January 15 deadline regardless of which year they are applying for but was later informed that I actually have to apply to the school itself and that they would give me a place that I would have to start in 10 days.

It may not be the school itself you need to contact. In year admissions and waiting lists are managed by LA in most circumstances and the process will be on the website.