AS the deadline to apply for reception or primary school places looms, parents and carers are deciding which schools should be their preference.

Applications need to be submitted to Oxfordshire County Council by Saturday, January 15.

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Here's a break-down of the process

Who can apply?

Parents and carers of children born between September 1, 2017 and August, 31, 2018 can now apply for infant or primary school, to begin Reception in September 2022.

How can I apply?

You can apply online here on the Oxfordshire County Council website.

If you can't apply online, you can request a paper application form from a school or the School Admissions Team.

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You can list four different schools in order of preference. The council strongly advises you to use all four preferences.

What schools should I consider? 

Many, but not all, primary and infant schools have catchment (or designated) areas.

Oxfordshire County Council advises that if there is a catchment school for your address, add it as one of your preferences.  

For details on catchment areas for schools, click here.

Attending your catchment school does not guarantee that your child is eligible for free home to school transport. The catchment area school may not be the nearest available school.

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What happens after I apply?

After the application deadline, all submitted applications will be processed.

If you make your application between November 2, 2021 and January 15, 2022, the council will notify you of the outcome on national offer day whch is April 19, 2022.

If you apply online, you'll receive an email on national offer day. You'll be able to log in and see the school that has been offered for your child. You can accept or reject your place online.

If you apply by paper, the council will send you a letter by second class post on national offer day.

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