Reception Admissions
Parents who are seeking a Reception class place in September 2027 for a child born between 1 September 2022 and 31 August 2023 must apply online to Birmingham City Council Local Authority in October 2026. Even if you have another child at the school, you are still required to submit an application.
Applications open on 1 October 2026 for primary school applications for entry in September 2027. The closing date is 15 January 2027 at 11:59pm.
You will need to select three different schools in order of preference. Please see the guidance on making a realistic application to support you in your choices.
Please click here for the online application form.
Timetable for the primary school admissions process for 2026 to 2027
|
Stage of process |
Date |
|---|---|
|
Application period starts |
1 October 2026 |
|
Closing date for applications |
15 January 2027 |
|
National Offer Day |
16 April 2027 |
|
Birmingham schools waiting lists open |
10 May 2027 |
|
Deadline for submitting appeals |
17 May 2027 |
|
Appeal hearings for appeals submitted on time |
19 July 2027 |
|
Round closes (applications need to be made using in-year application directly to the school) |
31 July 2027 |
|
Term starts |
2 September 2027 |
Please click here for more information.
School age - when can your child start school?
Reception is the first year of primary school. It comes after Nursery, but before Year 1.
Children in Birmingham can go to school (Reception) in the September after their 4th birthday.
Example
If your child was born between 1 September 2022 and 31 August 2023, they will be able to start school in September 2027.
When to apply
Parents can apply for a place in the Autumn of the year before their child turns 4 years of age. It’s important that you apply for a place as soon as possible:
- attendance at a nursery class doesn’t give a child automatic priority for a place
- don’t wait until your child is 5 years old, or your preferred school may already be full
You can list up to 3 preferred schools when you apply.