Admissions to Dorset LA schools
Information for anyone living in or moving to Dorset who requires school places for their children. 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 available places.
- 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. (See "How to apply" link)
- Please look at the school pyramid lists on the right 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 application the admissions policy will be applied
- For free, independent advice on how to complete a form contact a choice advisor - see link
- How to appeal having been refused a place - please click on link
- To go on a waiting list complete the form and return to School Admissions or contact the school if voluntary aided or foundation (see frequently asked questions below for more information)
- If you feel you need help with transporting your child to school download the application on the right and submit to School Admissions with supporting evidence. Transport is offered in limited circumstances only (see frequently asked questions)
- For past data on school allocations click the link on the right. 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 click on interactive catchment map
-
Catchment areas for schools
Find out which school's 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.
-
How to apply for a school place
Pleaser note: we cannot guarantee that you will be offered your catchment or preferred school.
-
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.
