Parents in Warwickshire face a pressing deadline to secure school placements for their children. With less than two weeks remaining, those seeking admission for reception or junior school for September 2026 must submit their applications by 4 PM on January 15, 2026.
According to Warwickshire County Council, approximately 2,000 applications for reception places and around 200 for junior schools are still outstanding. The upcoming deadline applies to children born between September 1, 2021, and August 31, 2022, who must apply for a place in a reception class. It also pertains to children currently in Year 2 at an infant school wishing to transition to junior school, as this transfer does not occur automatically—even among schools sharing the same name.
Application Process and Importance of Timeliness
Applications must be submitted online at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/primaryplace. Parents and carers who meet the deadline will receive their child’s school offer on National Offer Day, which falls on April 16, 2026. Those who fail to apply by January 15 will face considerable challenges, as late applications will only be considered after timely submissions have been processed. By that point, many schools may be fully enrolled, significantly reducing the likelihood of securing a spot at a preferred institution.
Coun Wayne Briggs, the education spokesperson for Warwickshire County Council, emphasized the importance of meeting the deadline. He stated, “Starting school for the first time and moving to a junior school can feel like a big step, but we’re here to help you get started with your school application. The most important thing you can do is to get your application in by the January 15 deadline. If you are struggling with this, then let us know, as we can help.”
Resources for Parents and Carers
To assist families during this process, Warwickshire County Council provides a wealth of resources on its website, including a comprehensive directory of local schools. Parents can find guidance on how to navigate the application process, as well as advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
For additional support or to submit an application, parents and carers are encouraged to visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/primaryplace. As the deadline approaches, timely action is crucial for securing a place in the desired school.
