When do families find out about secondary school places?

Every year, families across the country eagerly anticipate finding out where their child will be attending secondary school. The process of applying for secondary school places can vary depending on where you live, but generally, families find out about their child’s placement in the spring or early summer.

In England, secondary school places are usually allocated on National Offer Day, which falls on March 1st. Families will receive an email or letter informing them of the school their child has been allocated to. In some areas, families may also find out through an online portal.

In Scotland, families typically find out about secondary school places in mid-March. The allocation process is done through the local council, and families will receive a letter with the details of their child’s placement.

It is important for families to be prepared for National Offer Day and to have a plan in place in case their child is not allocated to their preferred school. Many families choose to appeal the decision or look into other options such as waiting lists or nearby schools.