Apply to start or move schools during the school year

You will need to make an in-year school application if:

• your child lives in Brent and does not currently have a school place
• you have a school place but wish to transfer to a school in Brent
• you have recently arrived in Brent and you have school aged children.

If your child is already in school and you are thinking about a transfer to another school, you will need to be aware that many schools will already be full. It is advised that you avoid changing school when your child is in Year 6 of primary school or Year 10 or 11 of secondary school. This is an important time in your child’s education so you should only consider moving school if there is very good reason to do so.

You can apply to us for schools located in Brent. For some schools you will need to apply direct. These will be listed in the guidance notes below. 

Please read the guidance notes for in-year primary applications or in-year secondary applications before you apply. For an accessible version of the documents, please email school.admissions@brent.gov.uk.

If you made an in-year application in 2024/25 and want to remain on a waiting list into the new academic year starting in September 2025, you will need to complete a new in-year online application for the 2025/26 academic year using the link above. 

Starting school in September 2026

There is a different application process if you need to make an application for starting school in September 2026:

• Primary or Junior School applications
• Secondary School applications

Check your waiting list position 

If you have submitted an application for an in-year school place you will be able to check your waiting list positions for community primary schools by using the unique application reference number that is shown at the top of your acknowledgement letter (304-20XX-XX-X-XXXXXX) and your child's date of birth.

We are only able to provide waiting list positions for community primary schools. If you would like to check your waiting list position for Academies, Foundation, Voluntary Aided or Free schools (including all secondary schools) you will need to contact the school directly.

Check waiting list 

Changing an existing application

To make a change to an application you have already submitted you need to complete a Change of application details form.

The application process 

Due to the high demand for school places in Brent, if we are able to offer you a place at your preferred school, your child must start as soon as possible.

You can choose up to six school preferences. You must list them in the order you want them. If we can offer you more than one school we will make only one offer at the highest-ranked of these school. 

Find out more about the school application process

Appeals

You have the right of appeal for a place at any school you listed on your application. You are strongly advised to accept a place at an alternative school in the meantime. This will ensure that your child will have a school place if your appeal is unsuccessful. The outcome of your appeal will not be affected by accepting a place at another school.

Read more about the appeal process