How to apply for schools with vacancies?

[iverunoutofinspiration]

We didn’t get our preferences today and I have noticed a school I wanted to send me daughter to but didn’t because we were out of catchment and it is sought after. The local authority website shows there are vacancies available still. How do I go about applying? The website says we may need to reallocate but that would take us off the waitlist for the schools that were our first and second choice - what’s best to do?

Ask your LA. At this stage you should be able to change your preferences, naming this school as your third preference. That way you will stay on the waiting list for your first and second choices but should be offered a place at the school with vacancies.