School applications open for parents to secure places

Monday, 26 September 2022 14:45

By David Murphy

Parents of children who are due to start primary school or secondary in September 2023 can now apply for their child’s school place.

Children born between September 1 2018 and August 31 2019 are due to start school for the first time in September 2023. Children currently in year 6 are due to start secondary school in September 2023.

Applying for your child’s school place couldn’t be quicker or easier thanks to the council’s secure online application system rochdale.gov.uk/schooladmissions

Councillor Rachel Massey, cabinet member for children’s services and education, at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “School application time is an important time in your child’s journey. I would really encourage parents and carers to go to the open days of schools they’re looking at applying for, to get a real feel for the school and ask any questions you may have. Please remember to use all four preferences and get your application in on time. Just putting one choice will not increase your chances of getting a place there as many schools are popular with applications. Don’t delay, fill it in as soon as you can. If you need any help please contact us.”

You can use your smartphone, PC or tablet and the system is open 24 hours a day seven days a week for your convenience. Changes can be made to applications until the deadline and you can also track progress, meaning you don’t have to wait for the letter to drop through the door and instant updates and notifications will be sent via email.

Applicants should be aware that:

Four school preferences should always be given as allocations are based on demand and the number of places available
The chances of obtaining a place at any school does not increase if you only select one preference or choose the same school four times
If only one preference is stated and it cannot be offered, the council will allocate a place for your child at the next nearest school with spaces available
Preferences as less likely to be met if applications are received after the closing date so please submit your secondary school application before 31 October 2022 and primary school applications before 16 January 2023

The council’s online system is easy to use, but for those that need assistance then our helpful library staff will be on hand to help across the borough. Alternatively, you can call 0300 303 0340 with any questions.

Information about school open evenings are on each schools own website.