How in-year admissions work
When you move house during the school year, you apply for a place through the 'in-year admissions' process. Contact your new local council's school admissions team, who will tell you which schools have places available. You can also apply directly to academies and free schools. You're entitled to apply for up to three schools in most areas.
Finding a school with places
Use your new council's website to see which schools have vacancies. Popular schools are often full, especially in urban areas. If your preferred school is full, you'll be added to the waiting list — your position is based on the school's oversubscription criteria, not when you applied. Living closer to the school usually helps your position.
Transfer your child to a new school is 1 of 23+ tasks when you move
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Your local council has a legal duty to help you find a school place. If no school has a place in your child's year group, the council must find an alternative. Your child should not be without a school place for long. You can also appeal if you're refused a place at your preferred school — the appeal is heard by an independent panel.
Telling your current school
Notify your child's current school in writing that they'll be leaving. Give as much notice as possible. The school will prepare your child's education records for transfer to the new school. If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), contact your current and new local authority as the transfer process is different. Don't forget to also register with a new GP and dentist for your children in the new area.