Starting school

How to apply for a Primary/Reception place in 2025/2026.

To apply, you need to submit a completed common application.

If your child was born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2022 you need to apply before 15 January 2026.

You can apply online by using the eAdmissions website, which opens for applications in September and is accessible right up until midnight on 15 January. You can also apply in writing by requesting a form from the City of London Schools Admissions Service on 020 7332 1002.

Watch the how to apply for primary school video for information.

The address details you provide on your application form will be checked with the City of London Corporation’s council tax records so that we can be sure you live in the City of London.

You are also required to provide proof of child residence. This can be in the form of your latest child benefit letter or other official Government documentation such as your latest Tax Credits notification.

Further information

To find out more about the primary school admissions process, including tips on how to select schools and make your preferences, please read our Starting Primary School Guide (below).

Parents looking for a primary school place can also apply for schools in other local authorities. To find schools near your home visit the School Finder website which lets you look at school information including Ofsted reports, performance data and a profile of the school.

How to apply for a Secondary School (year seven) 2025/26

Children start secondary school in year seven. You must begin the process of applying for a secondary school place when your child is in year six.

To apply, you need to submit a completed common application form.

your child was born between 1 September 2014 and 31 August 2015 you need to apply before 31 October 2025.

You can apply online by using the eAdmissions website, which opens for applications in September and is accessible right up until midnight on 31 October. You can also apply in writing by requesting a paper form from the City of London Schools Admissions Service by calling 020 7332 1002.

Watch the how to apply for secondary school video for information.

Further information

To find out more about the secondary school admissions process, including tips on how to select schools and make your preferences, please read our Starting Secondary School Guide (below).

Secondary schools and City of London academies

Children living in the City of London have priority admission places for at The City Academy, Hackney, City of London Academy Islington and City of London Academy Southwark.
Pupils transferring to secondary school can also apply for schools in neighbouring boroughs. Go to the School Finder website to look at school information.

Moving from nursery to primary school

If your child has been assessed as having SEND or has an Education, Health and Care Plan the transition process should begin with a Transition Meeting at your child's nursery in the term before they transfer to school. Ideally this meeting should be attended by staff from your new school. Sometimes an Educational Psychologist and other staff may also attend.

Moving from primary to secondary school

If your child has SEND, the move from primary to secondary school should always be supported by the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) at your child’s primary school and the SENCO at the secondary school working together to make sure the move goes as smoothly as possible. The City of London provides a dedicated transition support service for children living in the City who have education, health and care plans. This is provided by members of our SEND team who will support you through the transition process.

In addition, you can access support from a dedicated Family Partnership Officer within the Tower Hamlets SEND Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS).

They offer impartial advice and support and can discuss options for children moving on to secondary education. Their contact details are:

Tower Hamlets & City of London
Family Information, Advice and Support Service
30 Greatorex St
Whitechapel
London E1 5NPT
Telephone: 020 7364 6489 (Monday to Friday, 9am- 5pm)
Email: Family Information, Advice and Support Service