Moving to Secondary School

In the autumn term of a child’s final year at primary school (Year 6) parents and carers receive information from the Local Authority explaining how arrangements for secondary transfer are managed in the county and details of the secondary schools available. The secondary schools host a range of ‘open afternoons/evenings’ so that children and parents can tour the schools, meet staff and students. In years like 2020 these events are virtual and accessible from the appropriate school's webpage.

Selecting the right secondary school for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent makes for their child and so all parents are encouraged to visit more than one school so that an informed decision can be made.

Applying for a place

Applications for September for our Secondary Partner Schools such as Norton Hill, Somervale, Writhlington, The Blue, Hayesfiled, St Gregorys and Ralph Allen the following year close on 31st October. If you have not yet applied for a secondary school place, the Local Authority Website should have information you need.

If you are interested in one of our partner schools such as Downside or Millfield, please note their admission and application arrangements may vary from LA schools, including the final submission dates for applications. Please see their websites for more details.

Important things to remember when applying

• You can apply for up to 3 different schools. You must rank the schools in order of preference. The first school should be the one you would most like your child to go to.
• We advise that you use all 3 preferences and enter your catchment school as one of your preferences.
• If you apply after the closing date you are far less likely to get a place at one of your preferred schools.
• If you are moving house during the application process please read the Information for Parents booklet for advice.

Please follow the link below for more information about transferring to secondary school.

https://www.somerset.gov.uk/education-and-families/starting-at-a-secondary-or-upper-school-in-september/

https://beta.bathnes.gov.uk/apply-secondary-school-place-year-7