Step 3 – Supporting documents for in-year applications
Supporting evidence
You may need to provide supporting documents with your in-year school application.
If you are applying online, you can take a photo of the document and upload the image.
If you are new to the UK
Please provide proof of your child’s date of birth. You can upload:
- their passport
- their birth certificate
- a stamped UK entry visa, if applicable
If you are moving home
You may need to send:
- a copy of your exchange of contracts, or
- a rental agreement
We cannot offer school places based on future or intended addresses.
UK armed forces and crown servants
We follow national guidance to support service families.
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You can apply 12 weeks before your move if you attach an official letter from the Ministry of Defence, Foreign and Commonwealth Office or GCHQ confirming:
- your relocation date
- your quartering address
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If you are moving during the summer and need a place for September, you can apply from April.
Your child won't take priority in a school's admission criteria, but we can process your application in advance of your move as stated above.. We will offer a place if one is available in the correct year group. If not, you will be offered the right to appeal.
Looked after children (LAC) and previously looked after children
You may need to provide one of the following:
- adoption certificate or order
- Child Arrangement Order
- Special Guardianship Order
- a letter from a social worker or local authority confirming the child’s status
If your child is currently looked after, we also need a letter or email from the social worker confirming they support the application.
Social or medical evidence
If you are applying under the social or medical category, you must provide evidence from an independent professional, such as a medical specialist.
This must explain:
- why your child can only attend the school you are applying for
- the specific reasons for this request
Proof of parental responsibility
If there is any doubt about who has parental responsibility, we may ask for proof.
You can provide:
- your child’s birth certificate
- a parental responsibility agreement
- a court order giving parental responsibility
- a Child Arrangement Order
You must also provide proof of your identity, such as a passport.