By KLTV Newsdesk –

Kirklees Council urges parents and carers to apply on time for September 2026 places

Kirklees Council is reminding parents and carers that the deadline for applying for primary and middle school places for September 2026 is fast approaching.

Applications are required for children due to start reception class at primary school, as well as for pupils moving between school phases.

This includes children currently in Year 2 at infant school who will transfer to junior school, and children in Year 5 at first school who will move on to middle school.

Application Deadline: 11.59pm on 15 January

Applications must be made online through the Parent Portal.

The process is described as quick, easy and secure, and parents using the portal for the first time can set up an account in just a few minutes.

Choosing Schools and Understanding Catchment Areas

Parents and carers can find details of schools in their priority admission area, also known as the catchment area, by visiting the school admissions webpages.

Information about other local schools is also available, alongside a clear explanation of how places are allocated.

For reception places, families are strongly encouraged to name three preferred schools: a first, second and third choice.

This approach increases the likelihood of securing a place if the first preference school is oversubscribed. It is also recommended that at least one of the preferences is within the child’s catchment area.

Late Applications May Reduce Chances

Kirklees Council warns that applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered until all on-time applications have been processed.

Applying late can significantly reduce the chances of a child being offered a place at one of their preferred schools.

Parents and carers are therefore urged to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out.