Looking for details

[ParentLookingforHouse]

Dear parents,
We moved to WD24 area recently and our little one is due to go school from next year. Like to understand, what things to check for school ratings, performance etc.
Also, how do we write to council in advance for admission in terms of timelines since school mentioned - admission is only through Hertfordshire council.
Any leads please?

Admissions are the same all over England. The closing date is mid January for a September 2026 start. Hertfordshire council will have a school admissions page with all the info you need, including what schools you’ll be closest to.

https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/services/schools-and-education/school-admissions/primary-junior-and-middle-schools/primary-junior-and-middle-school-places.aspx

start here!

Try not to obsess over ofsted ratings - they don’t tell you everything. First find out from the council website which schools you have a realistic chance of getting into (in most cases this is done by distance and many councils have a helpful map showing last year’s admissions distances). Go to as many open days as you can - that will give you a good fee for the atmosphere of each school. Open days take place in the autumn term and you have to apply by mid January.

Make sure you enquire about wraparound provision if you are working parents. Options and waiting lists vary massively by school.

Visits are really useful in getting a feel for a school. Bear in mind that you’re not choosing a school, you’re selecting preferences and the offer of a place is dependent on the admission criteria for the school.

Use all the option selections you’re allowed and you can go on waiting lists if you don’t get your first preference.

School websites will have lots of information about Ofsted reports and performance, but they really aren’t all of the picture.