Secondary school admissions common myths
All of the following statements relating to secondary school admissions are not true.
Not true.
You apply at the beginning of Year 6. The local authority common application form must be submitted by 31st October each year either online, or by a paper application form upon request.
Not true.
There is no automatic transfer from primary to secondary. You must complete a local authority common application either online or by a paper application form upon request.
Not true.
You still need to complete your home local authority's common application form. Some schools do have a supplementary information form - if they do, you will need to complete this and your home local authority's common application form.
Not true.
Some schools do give priority to those with older brothers or sisters in the school, but there is no guarantee. You need to check the school's criteria and must still complete the application procedure in full.
Not true.
If you don't apply, other people who have applied will more than likely have taken the places. Also, it depends on the school's admission policy and volume of applicants.
Not true.
You put all your preferences on your home local authority common application, no matter which local authority the schools you want to apply for reside in. So for Liverpool residents wishing to apply to Knowsley or Sefton schools, you fill in the Liverpool application form.
Not true.
Don't repeat the same school. This will not increase your chances of a place and you would be disadvantaging your chances of securing an offer of a place at other schools you may meet the criteria for.
Not true.
All initial offer emails (online applicants only) and letters are sent out by the local authority on 1st March for Year 7 place.