Time to Apply: School Places Now Open for September 2025 Starters

Parents and carers in Cornwall can now submit applications for school places for their children who will be starting primary or secondary school in September 2025. The Cornwall Council system officially opened for applications on Wednesday, September 4, with deadlines fast approaching for families who need to secure a school spot.

Who Should Apply?

If your child was born between 1 September 2020 and 31 August 2021, you are required to apply for a reception place. For those with children currently in Year 6, it’s time to select your preferred secondary school.

The key deadlines to remember are:

• Secondary school applications: must be submitted by 31 October 2024
• Reception class applications: must be submitted by 15 January 2025

Why the Deadline Matters

Parents and carers are strongly urged to apply by the deadline to increase the chances of securing their preferred school. Late applications may result in a child being placed in a less desirable school, as these will only be processed after all on-time applications are considered.

Councillor Barbara Ellenbroek, cabinet member for children and families, emphasised the importance of making timely decisions:

“Getting the best school place for your child is an important decision for all parents and carers, which is why it is crucial to get the right information now and submit your application before the deadline.”

Barbara also recommended that families explore multiple school options when applying.

Support for Parents and Carers

The Cornwall Council School Admissions Team is available to provide guidance and support for families uncertain about which school to apply for. Many schools in the area are holding open days, offering the chance to get a closer look at what’s on offer for both primary and secondary education.

For more detailed information on school admissions, including how to apply, visit Cornwall Council’s website.

Travel Assistance

Parents and carers are responsible for ensuring their child gets to and from school, though some students may be eligible for travel support. More information on home-to-school travel assistance is available on Cornwall Council’s home-to-school and post-16 travel pages.

If you’re unsure whether your child qualifies for travel assistance, you can contact the Transport Coordination Service (TCS) for advice via studenttravel@cornwall.gov.uk. It’s recommended to do this before submitting your preferred school choices.

To ensure your child has the best chance of attending your preferred school, submit your application before the deadline and consider all available options.