Parents and guardians in Warwickshire have less than two weeks to secure a school place for their children entering reception or transitioning to junior school. The deadline for applications is set for 4 PM on January 15, 2026, affecting children who will start reception or move to junior school in September 2026.
According to Warwickshire County Council, approximately 2,000 parents and carers have yet to submit their applications for reception places, while around 200 still need to apply for junior school placements. The deadline specifically targets children born between September 1, 2021, and August 31, 2022, who must register for a spot in a reception class. The same deadline also applies to children currently in Year 2 at an infant school, as the transfer to junior school is not automatic, even if both schools share the same name.
Application Process and Consequences of Delays
Parents can apply online at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/primaryplace. Those who complete their applications by the January 15 deadline will receive their school offers on National Offer Day, which falls on April 16, 2026. Late applications will only be considered after timely submissions have been processed. This could hinder a child’s chances of securing a place at their preferred school, as many institutions may be fully booked by that time.
Coun Wayne Briggs, the education spokesman for Warwickshire County Council, emphasized the importance of meeting the deadline. “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,” he stated. He encouraged parents who may be struggling with the process to reach out for support, assuring them that assistance is available.
For additional guidance, the council’s website offers a wealth of resources, including a directory of local schools, to help families navigate the application process. Accessing this information can be crucial for parents to make informed decisions about their children’s education.
Parents are reminded that timely action is essential to ensure their children secure the best possible educational opportunities as they embark on this important phase of their academic journey.
