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Applying for a secondary school place in Suffolk
Taking the next step up to secondary school will be a big change in your child’s life and inevitably, brings with it many questions.
We’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions here...
What secondary schools are there in Suffolk?
Scroll down to find a comprehensive guide to many of the schools across the county. You will be able to read a general overview of each school and find out when the Open Days will be taking place.
What’s the difference between the types of school?
There are many different types of school. The most commonly known ones are:
Academies – these are responsible for their own admission arrangements and are funded directly by central government
Community Schools and Colleges – these are maintained by the local authority
Voluntary Aided Schools and Colleges – these schools are jointly supported by Church Diocesan Boards and the local authority. They are responsible for their own admission policy
Independent Schools – fee paying schools often have a different application process so it is best to check with each one individually. Any application should be made directly with the school.
How can I find the designated school for my area?
Designated areas, or catchment areas, have been pre-determined by Suffolk County Council or the governing bodies of schools that have their own admission arrangements.
To find the designated school for your area visit www.suffolk.gov.uk – applying for a school place – school catchment areas.
Often a number of ‘feeder’ primary schools will be linked to a secondary school, so it’s always worth checking to see if your child’s primary school feeds into the designated secondary school for your area, especially if you live close to a catchment boundary.
What if my child wants to attend a school out of catchment area?
When you fill in the application form (online or on paper) you’ll be asked to list the schools you’re applying for in order of preference. You must apply for at least 3 schools. This is when you will be able to prioritise your child’s preferred school. Whether a place is offered will depend on the school’s admission process and if places are available. Priority is always given to pupils who live within the catchment area of a school. If you have any questions contact the school directly or your local council.
How can I find out more about a school?
- Visit the school - most schools have open days for prospective pupils and parents
- Look at the school’s website and prospectus
- Read the school’s most recent Ofsted reports - www.ofsted.gov.uk
- Check the school league tables, which include exam results - www.compare-school-performance.service.gov.uk
- Talk to other parents about what they think of the school
How do I apply for a place?
Submitting an application for a primary or secondary school place online is a convenient and favourable method for many families. Forms can be completed from home, at any time, any day of the week. Once the form has been submitted, an email receipt will confirm that the application has been received. Online applications can be changed right up to midnight on the closing date. Alternatively, you can submit a paper application form. You will need to contact your local council to get a copy of the form on paper.
Suffolk County Council Applications:
Primary and Middle School Applications:
The online system will be available from the beginning of September 2016 until midnight on 15 January 2017.
Secondary School Applications:
The online system will be available from the beginning of September 2016 until midnight on 31 October 2016.
Admissions:
Suffolk Contacts:
Education helpline: 0345 600 0981
Email: admissions@suffolk.gov.uk
Online applications: www.suffolk.gov.uk/admissionstoschools
When can I expect a decision?
There are now set dates when school places are officially confirmed. These are:
1 March 2017 – Secondary Schools
18 April 2017 – Primary Schools
The results will be available for you to see online.
Alde Valley Academy
Alde Valley Academy is a small and friendly school which prides itself on its close links with parents and the local community.
Its leadership team has a strong reputation of improving schools, and together with its dedicated and hardworking team of teachers and support staff, it is on its way to making Alde Valley Academy an ‘outstanding’ school.
Every single student is at the centre of the teaching and learning approach, and the academy is committed to giving them its complete focus and attention. Rigorous academic challenges are delivered with educational and personal development opportunities and each student is treated as an individual and with respect, recognising that they have a unique set of gifts that it is a privilege to nurture.
The academy’s promise to students:
· Provide a safe and secure environment where they are accepted as themselves
· Challenge and support them to achieve their best
· Provide a tolerant and respectful community
· Provide an enriched curriculum with opportunities to participate in trips
· Equip them with the skills required to explore a prosperous future.
Visit one of the events and find out more at www.aldevalleyacademy.org.uk or call 01728 830 570.
Ormiston Sudbury Academy
Ormiston Sudbury Academy is extremely proud to be a ‘good’ academy, rigorously raising standards and achievement to become outstanding. It is committed to providing its students with a positive and challenging experience on a day to day basis.
Ormiston Sudbury Academy offers an exceptional curriculum with diverse extra-curricular experiences to broaden students’ opportunities. It is dedicated and determined to demonstrate that there are no barriers to learning; all students can be successful, regardless of their starting point.
The first class, all-round education encourages them to stretch themselves and excel in preparation for life and the world of work.
By working closely with parents and the local community the academy has built a safe, caring and happy environment in which to thrive. It is committed to helping students grow into well-rounded individuals that grab all the opportunities and enjoy their education.
Meet the Principal and staff at one of the Open Days:
Monday 19 – Thursday 22 September from 9.15am–10.15am and 11am–12pm
Thursday 22 September from 5pm–8pm
Contact principal@ormistonsudbury.co.uk or visit www.ormistonsudburyacademy.co.uk
Westbourne Academy
Are you looking for a school that will support your child to reach their full potential personally and academically? Do you want a school that provides strong care and support which nurtures self-esteem and will allow your child to be happy?
Westbourne Academy’s most recent Ofsted report highlights the progress it is making as an academy and confirms that it is: "well placed to continue to improve quickly".
The staff look forward to welcoming you to the academy’s open evening on Thursday 6 October between 6:00pm and 8:00pm, where you can experience first-hand the quality of its students and staff.
For details visit www.westbourne.attrust.org.uk or call 01473 742315