School applications open for September 2026 starters in Cornwall

Parents and carers in Cornwall can now apply for school places if their children are due to start primary school or move up to secondary school in September 2026.

If your child was born between 1st September 2021 and 31st August 2022, you will need to apply for a reception place. Parents and carers of children currently in Year 6 must also apply for their preferred secondary schools.

Key Deadlines

• Secondary school applications: 31st October 2025

• Reception applications: 15th January 2026

Cornwall Council has stressed the importance of applying before these dates to give families the best chance of being offered one of their preferred schools. Late applications are processed only after those received on time.

Advice from the Council

Cllr Hilary Frank, Cabinet member for children, families and schools, said:
“Securing the right school place for your child is an important step for all parents and carers. This is why it’s crucial to get the right information early on and submit your application before the deadline.

“It can also help to consider more than one option, whether you’re applying for your child’s first school place or making the move from primary to secondary.

“There is lots of support and guidance available through the School Admissions Team, and many are holding open days where you can find out first-hand what they have to offer.”

Travel Support

Parents or carers are responsible for transporting their children to and from school. However, some may be entitled to support. Details can be found on the Council’s home-to-school and post-16 travel pages.

The Council is urging families to check their eligibility and apply as early as possible to ensure transport is in place for the start of term. For queries, parents can contact the Transport Coordination Service at studenttravel@cornwall.gov.uk.

Children with Education Health and Care Plans

Parents of children with an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) do not need to complete an application form. Guidance is available on Cornwall Council’s EHCP transition pages.

Families can also email the Statutory SEND Service at ehcreviews@cornwall.gov.uk or call the SEND System Navigators on 01872 324242 for support.

Further Information

Full details on how to apply can be found on Cornwall Council’s school admissions page