If your child is in year 6, you can apply for a secondary school (year 7) place between 12 September 2024 and 31 October 2024.
Before you apply
You should:
- check you live in the Essex administrative area
- read the secondary school admissions booklet
You may also want to check the priority admission catchment area schools.
You can also watch our video on applying for a secondary school place.
Apply
Applications for the 2025 school year are now closed.
If you wish to make a late application for a secondary (year 7) school place, use our online late application form.
All applications received after 31 October 2024 will be treated as late and will only be processed after all on-time applications.
You are less likely to get a place at one of your preferred schools if you apply late.
View your application
View your application online via the Essex Education portal.
You cannot change your preferences online after the closing date. If you are changing address, you must email the School Admissions Team with:
- your child’s details
- your new address
- proof of new address which must be:
- a copy of a signed tenancy agreement if you are renting
- a solicitor’s letter confirming you have exchanged contracts if you are purchasing your new home.
School place offers
Emails for online applicants will be sent on 3 March 2025.
From 3 March 2025, if you applied online, you can log into your account to see your allocation.
Find out more about what to do after you get your school offer.