Information about applying for a school place
You can find information about schools in Wigan and their admission arrangements in the information booklets 'Admissions to Primary Schools' or 'Admissions to Secondary Schools'. You can download these above or we can send you a copy.
What you should consider before applying for a place at another school
It is generally in a child’s best interest to remain at the same school. Changing schools can cause an unnecessary break in your child's education. You should think about the following before making a decision.
Is your child having problems at their current school?
If your child is having problems, a change of school is not always the answer. You should discuss any concerns with your child's Headteacher before you apply for another school. There are many support agencies that will be able to help. The Headteacher of your child's school will be able to advise what help is available.
Is your child in years 10 or 11?
If your child is in year 10 or year 11, you should think very carefully before moving them for any reason. A different school may not be able to offer the same GCSE options for which your child has studied and completed coursework. Even if they do, they may use different examination boards or syllabuses. We advise parents to speak to schools and discuss options and exams before completing a request to transfer school form.
Are you moving house?
If you are thinking of moving house and your child would have to change school, there may not be places available at the school you want. The School Placements Team will be able to tell you which schools are full or have vacancies. Some schools are full in all or most year groups and we cannot guarantee there will be a place available in the area you intend to move to.
Am I guaranteed a place at the school I want?
No. All schools have an admission limit for each year group. If we cannot offer a place at the school you want and you reside in Wigan we will offer a place at an alternative school. You may wish to keep your child at their current school. You have the right of appeal if we refuse you a place at a school.
How do I apply for a transfer to another school?
To apply for a place at a voluntary aided (church) school you should contact the school direct and complete the school’s own application form.
If you want a community school, you can download the application for transfer of school form. The form is available once you have read and agreed to the declaration below.
You must return the completed form to The School Placements Team, Progress House, Westwood Park Drive, Wigan WN3 4HH. The team will notify your child’s current or last school of your request and will ask for more details about your child. This information will help us to see if the transfer will be routine or if your child may need extra support.
We will write to confirm that your form has been received and explain the next steps. It is important that your child continues to attend their current school should you decide to apply for a place at another school.
If you require any further help or advice, please contact the School Placements Team.
Declaration
I have read the above information about applying for a school place and wish to download an application for transfer of school form.
