Wiltshire families are being reminded that there is just over a month left to apply for primary school places for children starting school in September 2026. The deadline for applications is 15 January 2026.
Applications can be submitted online via Wiltshire Council’s website or by using a paper form available from the council’s Customer Services Team on 01225 713010. The deadline applies to both primary school admissions and infant-to-junior transfers.
National Offer Day for primary and junior places is 16 April 2026. Families who apply online will receive an email confirming their outcome, while those applying on paper will receive a letter posted on the same day.
Cllr Jon Hubbard, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said, “Starting primary school is an important milestone for every child and family, marking the beginning of their educational journey. We want to make this transition as smooth as possible, so we encourage all families with children due to start school in September 2026 to submit their applications as soon as they can.
“The deadline is 15 January, and applying on time gives your child the best chance of securing a place at your preferred school.”
As families look ahead to the next step, Wiltshire Council has shared 10 top tips to help make the process swift and stress-free:
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Apply online for immediate confirmation and quicker updates on National Offer Day.
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Keep your login details safe so you can access your offer without delay.
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The person completing the application must have parental responsibility.
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You can apply for up to three schools in order of preference.
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Listing more preferences does not reduce your chance of securing your first preference, but repeating the same school wastes options.
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Wiltshire residents applying for schools outside the county must still apply through Wiltshire Council.
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Non-Wiltshire residents applying for a Wiltshire school must apply through their own authority, except UK Service Personnel.
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Contact schools directly if you wish to find out more about them.
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Name your designated school as one of your preferences, even though places cannot be guaranteed.
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Check catchment area maps to find the designated school for your home address.
Late applications can still be made after 15 January, although families are less likely to receive one of their preferred schools.
More information is available at https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/schools-learning-admissions-online
