Starting primary school

Primary school applications

If you have a child born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2022, you must apply for your child to start primary school in September 2026 by Thursday 15 January 2026.

The deadline for on-time applications was Thursday 15 January. 

You can still submit a late application online until mid-August 2026. However, your application will not be processed until after Thursday 16 April (national offer day).


Before you apply

  • Read the school admissions 2026 brochure. This contains a lot of useful information on making your application, choosing your schools, frequently asked questions and all of the schools' individual criteria and contact details.
  • Read our starting primary school 2026 leaflet
  • If you would like to calculate the distance from your home to a school, you can use this Free Map Tools to calculate the distance from one postcode to another. Please note: This should only be used as a guide.

How to apply

The closing date for on time applications was Thursday 15 January.

If you miss the deadline date, you can still submit a late application online until mid-August. However, your application will not be processed until after Thursday 16 April (national offer day).

Hillingdon Council is not liable for delays due to postal services or internet providers. If you are completing a paper application form, we recommend sending it as soon as possible to ensure it is received before the deadline.

Apply for a primary school place

Please note:

Proof of address

Before applying for a school place, check which documents you need to provide as proof of address for you and your child.

Read guidance

Requesting a different age group placement

If you’re considering applying for your child to start school outside their chronological age, please review our detailed guidance.

View guidance

Parental disputes

Learn what to do if you and another person with parental responsibility disagree about a school application.

Find out more

Families arriving from abroad

Most children arriving from overseas, including EU countries, are eligible to attend school in England. Parents should check their child’s visa conditions before applying.

Learn more

Primary school statistics

See performance details and other helpful information.

View statistics