Here’s what happens when we get your application.

1. We treat every school you list as a separate application
   • We’ll send your application to every school you’ve listed at the same time. They won’t know what order you’ve listed them in.
   • If there’s more than one place available, we’ll offer you the one that’s your highest preference.
   • If there aren’t any places available at schools on your list, we’ll offer you a place at the nearest school to you that has one.
2. Schools use admissions priorities to decide places where there are more children applying than places available.
   • Every school has its own arrangements. You can find out more about them by contacting that school or reading our leaflet.
   • It’s worth noting that, although distance is something we look at, there’s no such thing as a catchment area in Bexley, and being nearby doesn’t guarantee you a place.

What happens if your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan

If your child is currently in a special school and you want them to stay there or transfer to another special school, you don’t have to fill in our application form.

If not, or you want them to go to a mainstream secondary, you’ll need to go to a meeting at their school along with your child’s case officer from our Statutory Assessment Team. You’ll discuss which schools might be best and apply using the same form as everyone else. 

We’ll work with the case officer and the school to make sure your preferred school can meet your child’s needs. Once everyone is agreed, your child’s EHCP will be updated to specify the school name, which gives your child priority for a place.