Reception class admissions for September

To apply for a Reception place starting in September 2026, you must complete an online application form. Please read the information below before clicking the apply button at the end of this page.

Before you apply

Read our Starting Primary School Guide for details on:

• how to apply for a primary school place
• admission arrangements for each school

View the Starting Primary School Guide

Who should apply

• Only Hartlepool residents should use our online application service
• If you live in another local authority area and want to apply for a Hartlepool school, apply through your own local authority and list your preferred Hartlepool schools. They will send us your application
• If you want to apply for an independent school, contact the school directly

Things to remember

• You’ll need to register for an account unless you’ve done so in a previous year
• You must have a valid email address to register
• After submitting your application, check for a confirmation email to make sure it’s been received
• If you log in to make changes, you must resubmit your application each time. You’ll get a new confirmation email after each resubmission
• You can access free computers and internet at Hartlepool libraries

How to apply

To submit an application for a primary school place starting in September 2026, please follow the information below:

• You can choose up to three schools for your child
• See information on summer born children and starting school later
• View how primary school places were allocated in previous years
• If you live outside Hartlepool, apply through your local council
• The deadline for applications is 15 January 2026. Apply on time to avoid missing out

Apply for a Reception place
 

Late applications

You can still apply after the deadline using the link above. However:

1. we will not process late applications until after National Offer Day – Thursday 16 April 2026
2. schools do not reserve places for late applicants. Your preferred school may be full
3. applications submitted after Offer Day will be processed in Bulk round 2, which closes Monday 5 May 2026. Offers will be sent on Tuesday 6 May 2026
4. if you apply on or after 6 May 2026, we aim to send your offer within 2 weeks of receiving your application

Moving your child to another primary school

If your child is already in primary school and you want to transfer them to a new school, complete an in-year admission form.