You can apply for primary (reception) school place at an Essex primary school between 4 November 2024 and 15 January 2025.
Before you apply
You should:
- check you live in the Essex administrative area
- read the primary school admissions booklet.
You may want to check the priority admission catchment area schools.
You can also watch our video on applying for a primary school place.
Apply
Apply online for your child’s primary (reception) school place.
Please ensure that your online application is submitted by 15 January 2025. Remember to re-submit after making any changes before the deadline.
All applications received after 15 January will be treated as late and will only be processed after all on-time applications.
You are less likely to get a place at one of your preferred schools if you apply later.
Changing school
If your child is already attending a primary school and you wish to change it, read our information on move to a different school and access the application form.
View your application
View your application via the Essex Education portal.
You cannot change your preferences online after the closing date. If you are changing address, you must email the School Admissions Team with:
- your child’s details
- your new address
- proof of new address which must be:
- a copy of a signed tenancy agreement if you are renting
- a solicitor’s letter confirming you have exchanged contracts if you are purchasing your new home
School place offers
Offers will be sent to online applicants by email on 16 April 2025.
From 16 April 2025, if you applied online, you can log into your account to see your allocation.
Find out more about what to do after you get your school offer.