Applications for primary school places to start in September 2022 open this week, (Monday 15 November 2021) and parents are encouraged to make use of all three preferences to get the best chance of securing a school they want.

Cardiff Council is also appealing to families to apply on time and to remember that a child is not automatically entitled to a reception place at a primary school where they attend the nursery. A new application must be made for a reception class place at primary school.

Further guidance has been issued byCardiff Council’s School Admissions team whohave identified 7 tips to assist families by explaining how the admissions process works, the importance of using all preferences available to them and why they should apply on time.

Cabinet Member for Education, Employment and Skills, Cllr Sarah Merry said: “Following the launch of our schools admission campaign last year, we saw a rise in parents applying for school places correctly and on time. This meant that more families were able to secure one of their preferred schools and is a positive step towards ensuring that every family in Cardiff has the knowledge, support and understanding so that they are not at a disadvantage when applying for a school place.”

“The aim is to make sure that families have a clear understanding of how best to apply for a place making the application process as simple and transparent as possible.

“I encourage families to read the information provided which has been made available in 10 different languages, in addition to English and Welsh. They can also seek help and advice from any of the cities libraries and Hwbs.”

The campaign features an animation aimed at children and families which helps to explain the 7 tips. It covers things like;

The importance of applying on time, by the published application deadline
The benefits of exploring all the schools in the child’s area by visiting their websites and reading their reports
The need to include a full list of school preferences in the first application form to increase the chance of getting a school of choice making sure the application form includes essential information such as if the child has a sibling at the school or any additional learning, medical or social needs.

Primary school applications close on Monday 10, January 2022.To apply for a school place please go to: www.cardiff.gov.uk/schooladmissions.

For families applying for a place a faith school, applications should be made directly to the school.