Applications for primary and secondary school places are now open, and parents and carers are encouraged to apply early to avoid missing important deadlines.

The national deadline dates for submitting applications are:

• Reception 2027 entry - 15 January 2027
• Infant to Junior transfer (Y3) 2027 entry - 15 January 2027
• Yr 7 Secondary 2027 - 31 October 2026.

All online applicants who applied by the national deadline date will receive notification of the outcome on the national offer dates, with reception, infants and primary on 16 April 2027 and Year 7 Secondary on 1 March 2027.

To help families through the application process, Wiltshire Council has shared some advice:

• Apply online for immediate confirmation that your application has been received.
• Keep your login details safe so you can easily access your account on National Offer Day.
• Ensure the application is completed by someone with parental responsibility for the child.
• You can list up to three school preferences in order of preference.
• Naming second and third preferences does not reduce your chances of being offered your first preference school.
• Wiltshire residents applying for schools outside the county should still apply through Wiltshire Council.
• Families living outside Wiltshire who wish to apply for a Wiltshire school should apply through their home local authority.
• Contact schools directly if you would like more information before applying.
• Consider including your designated catchment school as one of your preferences.
• Check catchment area maps to identify your designated school.

Families are reminded that while late applications can still be submitted after the deadline, they are less likely to secure a place at one of their preferred schools.

Applications can be made online at www.wiltshire.gov.uk/schools-learning-admissions-online

Families can request a paper application form by contacting Wiltshire Council's Customer Services Team on 01225 713010.