Make your application
Common myths
"My child is in the school nursery so they will have priority for/be automatically allocated a place in the reception class"
Attendance at a school nursery does not give priority for, guarantee, or automatically mean a reception place at that school. A separate application must always be made, and places are allocated in line with the school’s admission arrangements.
"I don't have to apply because my child attends a feeder school/has an older sibling attending/lives in the catchment area"
You must apply even if your child attends a feeder school, has an older sibling at the school or you live in the catchment area. Children are not automatically allocated a secondary/high school place. You must apply to be considered for a place at one of your preferred school(s).
If no application is received, your child will be allocated a place at a school with available spaces. This may not be your catchment school, and transport assistance may not be provided.
"I'm only going to put one preference, so I will have to be offered it"
By listing only one preference, you may miss the opportunity to be considered for other schools you may have preferred. School places are allocated according to each school's admission arrangements. If your preferred school cannot be offered, a place will be allocated at another school with places available.
"If I put the same school down three times, it will improve my chances"
Listing the same school more than once does not increase your chances of being offered a place. The school will only be considered once as a single preference.
"If I don't get any of my preferences, I will be offered my catchment school"
If you want to be considered for your catchment school, you must include it as one of your preferences. If you are not offered any of your preferred schools and your catchment school is full, a place will be allocated at another school with places available.
Applications open on 01 November 2026
You must apply through the local authority where your child lives and not where your preferred schools are located.
You can apply online. A link will be available when applications open.
What if I can’t apply online or have a problem?
As a last resort, you can apply by completing an application form and sending it to us:
- by email: admissions@staffordshire.gov.uk
- by post:
School Admissions and Transport Service
Staffordshire County Council
1 Staffordshire Place
Stafford
ST16 2LP
Applications forms will be available from 01 November 2026.
Application forms sent by post or via email will not receive an acknowledgement of receipt and you will not receive your school place offer by email on 16 April 2027.
