Summer born children

If you wish to consider delayed entry for your child, you will need to make a normal application for the ‘normal’ point of entry for your child. The ‘normal’ year in this case, is the academic year during which your child will turn five. This application will need to be made by no later than the deadline of 15 January 2021 We will not consider any requests made after this date.

When you apply, you must also inform us in writing, that you wish to apply for delayed entry as you do not wish to send your child to school until the September after their fifth birthday and request that your child is admitted out of their normal age group – to reception rather than year 1. Your letter or email should include reasons for your request and any evidence to support your case.

Evidence could include:

• Whether your child is summer born.
• Information about your child’s personal, social, emotional development and academic development.
• If relevant, medical history and views of a medical professional.
• Whether your child was born prematurely.

We, as the local authority, or the school, if it is its own admitting authority, will consider each case on its merits, taking into account the child’s best interest and either agree or refuse the request on that basis. Where we are the admitting authority, we will consult the headteacher(s) of your preferred school(s). We will ensure that you are aware of whether your request for admission out of year group has been agreed before the final offers are made in April. Any reasons for refusal will be shared with you.

If your request is agreed, you will need to make an application for schools the following year, in the normal way. We will amend our records to adjust your child’s starting school age. The agreement of delayed entry does not affect or guarantee a place at your preferred schools.

If your request is refused, your child will still be considered for admission to their normal age group.