Admissions to Dorset Local Authority schools

Please note that you are not guaranteed a place at your catchment or preferred school as it could be oversubscribed.

You must contact school admissions to discuss making the application.

Please read the parents' guide before making your application. It gives all the information you need including the admissions policy for community and voluntary controlled schools. Then complete an application form using the application instructions page

• Please look at the school pyramid lists showing details on all Dorset schools including the admission policies for voluntary aided and foundation schools
• If you live in another local authority area (including Bournemouth and Poole) you are recommended to contact them to enquire about their schools
• If we can offer your preferred school and it is not your catchment school please note that daily travelling arrangements and costs will be your responsibility, any younger children are not guaranteed a place at the school and your child will not be guaranteed a place at the recognised receiver school. In the last two instances, should you make an application the admissions policy will be applied
• For free, independent advice on how to complete a form contact one of the  Choice Advisors [27kb]
• To appeal having been refused a place visit School admissions - appeals
• To go on a waiting list complete the form and return to School Admissions or contact the school if voluntary aided or foundation. If you feel you need help with transporting your child to school download the application and submit to School Admissions with supporting evidence. Transport is offered in limited circumstances only - please see our Frequently asked questions
• For past data on school allocations please see Admissions data. Please note: this is for information only and has no bearing on current or future allocations
• If you wish to check your catchment area please see the Catchment areas for schools page.

• Catchment areas for schools

  Find out which school catchment area your address or area is in.

• Frequently asked questions

  Please read this information before contacting the Dorset LA or individual schools - the answer to your question may be here.

• Information about schools

  Which schools take pupils of what ages, the ages for each year and key stage, and a useful explanation of terms.

• Useful contacts

  People and organisations who can help you.

• Admissions data

  These pages provide data taken from admissions and transfers in 2008

• Supplementary application forms - in year applications only

  Some schools within Dorset Local Authority require applicants to fill in forms in addition to the standard forms.

• School admissions - appeals

  Once you have received written notification that your child has not been allocated a place at your preferred school, you have the opportunity to appeal to an independent appeal panel. You cannot appeal until you have this written notification.

• How to apply for a school place