Time to apply for West Sussex primary school places

For children starting school in West Sussex next year, it’s now time to apply for places.

Applications are now open for children who start in reception at primary and infant schools in September 2023. The quickest and easiest way is to apply online and the deadline for applications is 15 January 2023. Children born between 1 September 2018 and 31 August 2019 are eligible to start school next September.

Children who are currently in Year 2 at infant school will also need to apply for a place to start junior school in September next year.

It is strongly advised that parents and carers apply on time, before 15 January 2023, so as to give themselves the best chance of being offered one of their three preferences. Those who apply late are far less likely to get a place at one of their three preferred schools and will still need to apply, as they will not automatically be given a place.

Nigel Jupp, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “Helping people and communities to fulfil their potential is one of the key priorities in Our Council Plan and our schools play a significant role in helping to achieve this.

“When considering your three preferences, I encourage families to do as much research into the schools as possible. Please look at a school’s website and make contact with schools directly to ask questions and find out about their open days.”

All of the information about applying is on the Council website. Free use of computers with internet access is available in all West Sussex libraries, there’s no need to book. Those unable to apply online can request a form through the post by calling 033 301 42903.

Parents/carers are advised:

• to include three preference schools on your application, listing them in order of preference.
• Parents/carers who want their child to go to their catchment school will need to include that school as a preference for it to be considered.
• If you apply after the closing date you are far less likely to get a place at one of your preferred schools.

County Council admissions staff are available for those who need help with their application. Contact the admissions team by phoning 033 301 42903 or emailing the admissions team north: admissions.north@westsussex.gov.uk or the admissions team south: admissions.south@westsussex.gov.uk

Secondary school applications are currently open for September 2023 and close on 31 October 2022.