Parents across UK urged to meet secondary school application deadlines amid varying allocation rates

Parents across various UK regions are approaching deadlines to apply for secondary school places for the 2026/27 academic year, with key submission dates mostly set for October 31, 2025. Local councils including Glasgow, Essex, Medway, and West Midlands authorities emphasize the importance of timely applications to maximize the chance of securing a preferred school place, noting that late applications may reduce this likelihood. Application processes are managed by local councils, with online forms commonly available and paper forms obtainable for those without internet access. Parents are encouraged to consider school admission criteria carefully, use all available preferences on applications, and, where applicable, visit schools prior to applying. Statistics indicate varying success rates in first-choice allocations across regions, with Wolverhampton and Birmingham showing lower proportions compared to Herefordshire and Staffordshire. Additional support, such as application surgeries, is being offered to assist families, and special provisions exist for children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP).