Primary School Admissions in Dudley

Starting primary school is a monumental step—full of hope, potential, and new beginnings. In Dudley, children begin school the September after their fourth birthday, with compulsory attendance by the term after they turn five dudley.gov.uk. As a school guided by values of belonging, happiness, and giving every child every chance, supporting families through this transition is truly at the heart of our vision.

Here’s what parents need to know for the 2026 Reception intake:

• Applications open: 1 October 2025

• Deadline: 15 January 2026

  • Online applications must be submitted by midnight

  • Paper forms must reach the Admissions Team by 5 pm dudley.gov.uk

• Decision notifications:

  • Email offers are sent after 2 pm on 16 April 2026

  • Paper decision letters are posted the same date via 2nd-class post dudley.gov.uk

  • If you have been offered a Dudley School you are not required to accept this. The school offered will contact you at a later date. If you have been offered a school outside Dudley Authority, please contact the relevant Authority.

• Appeals (if needed):
  Appeals are heard between June and July 2026, with late appeals considered from mid-September onwards.

CRADLEY CE ADMISSIONS POLICY 2025-26.pdf

Cradley CE Admissions Policy 2026-27.pdf

Dudley Admissions

Secondary School Admissions

Here's what parents need to know when applying for secondary school places:

• Applications open: 1 September 2025

• Deadline: 31 October 2025

  • Online applications: submit by midnight

  • Paper forms: must reach the Admissions Team by 5 pm

• Offer day: 3 March 2026 (after 2 pm by email, letters posted 2nd class)

• Appeals: heard April–June 2026, with late appeals from mid-June

Secondary School Admissions Dudley

 

Appeal

If your child has been refused a place in your preferred school(s), you have the right to appeal against this decision. 

In order to submit your appeal, you will need a 'MYDudley' login.

Dudley Appeal

Dudley Schools Appeal Guide