Parents and carers in Wiltshire can now apply for primary and secondary school places for children starting or changing school in September 2027.
Applications are open through Wiltshire Council’s online school admissions service, with families encouraged to apply well ahead of the national deadlines.
The deadline for applications for Year 7 secondary school places is 31 October 2026, while applications for Reception places and infant to junior school transfers into Year 3 must be submitted by 15 January 2027.
Families who apply online by the relevant deadline will receive their outcome on the national offer dates. Secondary school offers will be announced on 1 March 2027, with Reception, infant and primary school offers following on 16 April 2027.
Cllr Jon Hubbard, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said, “Next September may seem a long way off, but I’d encourage parents and carers to apply for their child’s school place now so they can tick an important item off their list and plan ahead.
“Starting school, or moving from primary to secondary school, is a significant milestone for children and their families. We want to make sure that transition is as smooth as possible, so we encourage everyone with a child due to start or change school in September 2027 to submit their application as early as they can.
“Applying on time gives your child the best chance of securing a place at one of your preferred schools.”
Advice for making a school application
Wiltshire Council advises families to apply online where possible, as this provides immediate confirmation that the application has been received. Parents and carers should also keep their login details safe so they can access their account on National Offer Day.
Applicants can list up to three schools in order of preference. Naming second and third choices does not reduce the chance of being offered a place at the first-choice school.
Wiltshire residents applying for a school outside the county must still make their application through Wiltshire Council, while families living outside Wiltshire who want a place at a Wiltshire school should apply through their own home local authority.
Families are also advised to check school catchment areas, consider including their designated catchment school among their preferences and contact individual schools directly if they would like further information before making their choices.
Applications can be made through the Apply for a school place section of the Wiltshire Council website, where families can also find catchment maps, guidance and admissions policies.
Late applications can still be submitted after the relevant deadline, but families are warned that doing so can reduce the likelihood of being offered a place at one of their preferred schools.
Paper application forms are available by contacting Wiltshire Council’s Customer Services Team on 01225 713010.
