Starting school, or moving into a junior school, is a big step for both children and parents - it is a time of change, choices and decisions.

All children are required by law to start school at the beginning of the term after their fifth birthday.  However, in Wakefield children are normally admitted to school full time at the beginning of the term in which they become five.  Applications for school places are made in the prior academic year therefore you should talk to the Headteacher of any local primary school you may wish to attend as your child becomes three. 

Once you have decided which school(s) you prefer you must complete a Common Application Form.

If your child is due to transfer from an infant school to a junior school you should have received information from the child's current school about this process, together with a common application form for you to complete.

IMPORTANT CHANGES

Important changes to dates of entry to full-time schooling from September 2009.

From September 2009 there will only be two points of entry for four year olds into full-time schooling.

• Children born between 1 September and 31 March will start full-time school at the beginning of September.
• Children born between 1 April and 31 August will start full-time school at January instead of after Easter.
• Three year olds will continue to be admitted part-time three times per year, including Easter.

If you would like further information then please email: information@wakefield.gov.uk or telephone: 01924 306380.