Nursery
Reception
Secondary School
Sixth Form / College
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Search Schools Near YouFrequently Asked Questions
When does my child start school in England?
In England, children start Reception in the September after their 4th birthday. The school year runs from 1 September to 31 August, so children born between 1 September and 31 August will start school together that September. For example, a child born on 15 March 2021 would start Reception in September 2025.
What is the school admissions deadline for Reception?
In England and Wales, the deadline to apply for Reception places is 15 January. You'll receive your offer on National Offer Day, which is 16 April. Applications are made through your local council, typically from September onwards.
When do I apply for secondary school?
In England and Wales, the deadline to apply for secondary school (Year 7) is 31 October. Offers are sent on National Offer Day, 1 March. You apply during Year 6, when your child is 10 or 11 years old.
What is the school starting age in Scotland?
In Scotland, children start Primary 1 in August if they turn 5 between 1 March of the previous year and 28/29 February of the starting year. The cutoff date is different from England. Children born in January or February can request deferred entry to start the following year.
Can I delay my child starting school?
In England, summer-born children (born 1 April to 31 August) can request to delay starting Reception by a full year, entering Reception at compulsory school age. In Scotland, children born in January or February have an automatic right to defer entry. Contact your local authority for guidance on the process.
How is Northern Ireland different?
In Northern Ireland, children must be 4 years old on or before 1 July to start Primary 1 that September. The cutoff date is 1 July (rather than 31 August in England). Northern Ireland also has a Transfer Test for grammar school selection at age 10-11.