Think carefully before changing schools
Changing schools during the school year should only be considered if it is absolutely necessary, even if your child is having difficulties.
The impact of changing schools
Moving schools can:
- disrupt your child’s learning
- affect their emotional wellbeing
- make it harder for them to settle into a new environment
If your child is in Year 10 or 11, changing schools may:
- limit their subject choices
- affect their exam preparation
Before you decide to move
If your child is experiencing problems at school, such as bullying or falling behind, you should try to resolve these before applying to move school.
You can:
- speak to your child’s teacher or head of year
- contact the headteacher if the issue continues
- raise concerns with the school governors if needed
Most schools have similar structures and expectations.
Children who move schools may experience similar challenges in a new setting.
Read more about changing school without moving home - information coming soon
Need advice?
If you are unsure whether to move your child, you can contact our Education Officer (In-year Admissions) for guidance.
- phone: 01429 806849
Apply for a school place (in-year)
Fair Access Protocol
The School Admissions Code 2021 requires all state-funded schools to take part in their local authority’s Fair Access Protocol.
This ensures that unplaced children who are hard to place, especially those with challenging behaviour or urgent needs, are offered a school place:
- quickly
- at a suitable school
We only use this protocol for in-year admissions when no places are available through the usual process.
If your child has an EHCP
If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), do not complete an in-year application.
Instead, contact your SEN Officer to discuss a school move.