School admissions

[HelenJackcharbeth]

Hi - we are looking at moving house in the next 6-12 months (just a few miles) but this takes us out of our 3rd child's preferred secondary school catchment area. This is the school her brothers go to, and her primary school friends, so it is important to us that she is able to attend. Its generally quite oversubscribed but at the moment her place is guaranteed. My question - she will start secondary school in September 2015 - does anyone know at what stage the application and school offer/acceptance process etc will be completed so that we can move without risking her place?

Does the school not have a sibling priority that would come above distance?

Secondary school applications have to be in by 31st October. Offers are made on 3rd March. You need to check your LA's rules about what happens if you move after applying. Once the offer has been made you should be able to move any time you want.

Its catchment area and sibling, then catchment area, then sibling - but last year there were 520 applicants for 260 places so I worry that its too risky

Thanks - that's really clear - and helpful!