School Places and Children Arrangements: Deadlines You Shouldn't Miss
It doesn’t seem 2 minutes since the children went back to school…. but
Are you a parent of a child who is due to start in reception in September 2026, or are you a parent of a child who is due to commence high school also in September 2026? If so, are you aware that the deadline for applying for school places is fast approaching?
For parents or guardians who have little ones starting in reception in September 2026, many schools are now offering open days for you to go and look around the schools and make an informed decision as to the right school. You will, of course, be aware that from the beginning of October 2025, you can make your application for your child’s school place. The deadline for such applications closes on 15 January 2026.
For those parents or guardians who have children who are due to attend secondary school in September 2026, the deadline is much closer. The closing date for all secondary school applications is 31 October 2025, meaning that time is of the essence for you to make a decision and to submit the application.
For many parents, the choice of high school/primary school is a difficult one, but this can be further complicated when parents or guardians simply do not agree.
To apply in the East Leeds area, visit the Leeds Council website here.
What happens if parents or guardians cannot agree and the closing date is fast approaching?
Choosing a school is a big decision, and disagreements between parents or guardians can make the process even more stressful. It is imperative to seek urgent legal advice in relation to see whether or not this matter can be agreed amicably and if not, what action to take! Family Law solicitors for child arrangements are the best route for constructive resolution of these disagreements. To learn more about child arrangements in Family Law, visit our webpage here.
When to Seek Legal Advice and Make a Court Application
It is imperative to seek urgent legal advice in relation to see whether or not this matter can be agreed amicably and if not, what action to take!
If an agreement cannot be reached between both parents or guardians as to which school the child shall attend, then an urgent application to the court will be necessary for the court to determine the issue of school places.
Some Local Authorities will allow applications for school places to be made out of time if an application is to be determined by the Court.
Get Expert Help from Emsleys Solicitors
If you find yourself in this predicament and require urgent expert advice, then please do not hesitate to call one of our team members at Emsleys Solicitors.
