September 2027
Information for parents about applying for reception places for September 2027.
The arrangements for the admission of pupils to primary schools in September 2027 will, as far as possible, conform to the following timetable.
Tuesday 1 September 2026 - Apply from this date
School places are not allocated on a first come, first served basis. All applications received up to the closing date are given equal priority, but if you miss the deadline, a late application may reduce your chance of getting your preference of school.
Friday 15 January 2027 - National closing date for primary applications (statutory).
During this period all applications are processed and all preferences are considered against the published admissions policy. Where there are more applications than places available, decisions are made as to which children should be offered the available places. We will liaise and exchange information with all other admission authorities including neighbouring local authorities. The allocation and offer of a primary school place is finalised.
Friday 16 April 2027 - Offers issued to parents
(The national offer date is 16 April, if this date falls on a weekend or a bank holiday, offers are sent the next working day.)
If you are not happy with an initial offer, the appeals period starts from your receipt of the offer. Appeal information will be issued later as this allows some time for waiting lists to operate.
IMPORTANT
Please read our Admissions Policy return the Supplementary Form to the school of your choice (if applicable) & ensure you apply online too.
We welcome new parents to our Open Evening in October.
In-Year Admissions
If you are new to the area or wish to request a school transfer for your child to St. Mary’s Catholic Primary Catholic School an in-year admission application is required.
To apply for a place, parents must complete the In-Year Application Form and return it to head@stmaryslea.mecmat.org
Our school admissions team will notify parents of the outcome of their application within fifteen school days. If you would like your application to be considered under our faith criteria, in addition to the In Year Admissions form, please also complete our Supplementary Form.
If there are no places available, the child will be added to the waiting list and you have the right to appeal. Please see below for appeal information. Please note, that the waiting list does NOT guarantee a place at our school and if your child is currently not in education you should either make an appeal to our school and/or apply for a place at an alternative school.
Appeals
The school’s admission appeals are supported by Lancashire County Council. If the Governing Body cannot offer a school place, parents have the right to make an appeal.
