School Admissions Blog & Guides
Expert advice on finding the right school, understanding admissions, and making informed decisions for your child.
Schools Heading Into Financial Trouble: 2,021 English State Schools Showing Material Stress
An analysis of every state primary and secondary in England identifies 2,021 schools running deficits, with negative reserves, or below capacity — the early signals of a budget squeeze.
Beating the Postcode: 482 State Primaries Where Disadvantage Doesn't Determine Outcomes
An analysis of 16,692 English state primaries finds 482 schools serving high-disadvantage intakes that nonetheless deliver results well above the national average. Charts and rankings inside.
School Open Days: What to Ask and What to Look For
A practical guide to school open days. The questions to ask, the things headteachers won't volunteer, and the signals that matter beyond the polished tour.
Moving House for a School Catchment: A Parent's Guide for 2026
Thinking of moving to get into a school catchment? Practical advice on timing, proving residency, falling distances, and avoiding fraud allegations.
How to Appeal a School Place Decision in 2026
Step-by-step guide to appealing a school place decision in England. Understand the process, timelines, grounds for appeal, and how to prepare your case.
Primary School Admissions 2026: Everything You Need to Know
Complete guide to applying for primary school places in England for September 2026 entry. Deadlines, criteria, catchment areas, and tips from education experts.
Secondary School Admissions 2026: A Parent's Complete Guide
Everything parents need to know about applying for secondary school places in England for September 2026. Deadlines, 11-plus, grammar schools, and more.
Complete UK School Admissions Guide
Everything you need to know about applying for school places in England.
Ofsted Ratings Explained
What the grades mean, how inspections work, and what to look for.
Understanding Progress 8
The most important measure for secondary schools, explained simply.
School Catchment Areas Explained
How catchment areas work, how to check yours, and why distances change.
How to Choose the Right School
A framework for evaluating and comparing schools for your child.