Primary school places: What happens if I don’t get my first choice and can I appeal?

PARENTS and carers will soon find out what school their child is attending ahead of the 2023/24 academic year.

Here, we explain what you can expect to happen.

What happens if my child doesn't get a primary school place? 

Parents will find out what school their child is attending in September on April 17, 2023.

This decision will be sent by email or through the post from your local council.

The exact time the decisions are released varies between councils.

Parents or carers must then accept the offer before the deadline.

Details of the next steps will come with the offer.

As some schools have a high number of applications, priority will be given to those who most closely fit their requirements.

This can include how far they live from the school or if they have a sibling that already attends.

If the local council is not able to get you a place in a school of your choice, they must find your child an alternative place.

It is unlikely that your child will not receive an offer, but if this does happen, it's best to contact the local authority about next steps.

What happens if my child doesn't get their first choice for primary school?

If your child doesn’t get their first choice, don’t worry as you have a few options.

You can accept another offer from a school that has enough space to accommodate them.

Your child can be added to the waiting lists for schools of your choice.

Though this might not sound promising, you may find that places in your favourite school will become available as the circumstances of other children’s families change.

Or you can appeal the authority’s decision to reject your application.

How can I appeal?

Should you get a letter refusing your child a place at your chosen school, don’t despair, as you can appeal the decision.

You are entitled to at least 20 school days from the day the decision letter is sent by the school’s admissions authority.

Evidence must be provided by the deadline set to support your appeal. 

Appeals are most likely to succeed if they’re backed up by evidence or a letter from a professional, such as a social worker.

Your appeal will take place in front of an independent panel who will decide if the admission criteria of your chosen school was followed correctly.

More information on school terms dates and holidays is available here.