Application details can be found on the website of the local council where you live, external, even if you want to apply for a school in a different authority.
This year’s process is for children who turn five between 1 September 2026 and 31 August 2027.
Councils manage the process across their area, but individual schools set their own admissions policies.
Neighbouring authorities co-ordinate on cross-border applications. For example, the whole of Birmingham and the Black Country, plus Staffordshire, Shropshire and Telford have an agreement between them.
Each authority has its own guide for parents, including information on issues like catchment areas.
For example, most Herefordshire primary schools have defined catchments, but those in Sandwell do not. Either way, you can still apply for any school you choose.