How to apply to secondary school: a step-by-step guide for parents

Applying for secondary school can feel like a big step for you and your child. It’s a mix of emotions: excitement for the next chapter, but also the weight of making the right decision.

The good news? With a clear plan, the process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This guide walks you through each stage of the application journey, from exploring options to preparing for the big move so that you can feel confident every step of the way.

1. Start early: understanding your options

It can be helpful to start exploring your options during Year 5, giving you and your child plenty of time to get a feel for the schools that might be a good fit.

Think about:

• School type: grammar, independent, or comprehensive

• Curriculum focus: academic strengths and creative subjects.

• Learning environment: size of school, teaching style, pastoral care

• Co-curriculars available: see what sports, music, art and drama options are available.

Gathering this information early gives you time to prepare well for any entrance exams or open days.

We’ve made it easier for you. Click here to search for your local grammar and independent schools. You'll find all the key information you need to see which schools are right for your child and how to apply!

2. Know the admissions criteria

Each school has its own admissions rules; missing a small detail can mean missing out on a place.

Check for:

• Catchment areas and how they’re measured (straight line or walking distance)

• Primary schools can be linked to a secondary school - sometimes called ‘feeder schools’. Children attending these primary schools are often given priority for a place at the linked secondary school.

• Selective entry requirements, such as the 11+.

• Faith-based criteria, including church attendance or baptism certificates.

• Scholarships and bursaries - independent schools often offer awards for academic ability, music, sport, or other talents. Some also provide means-tested financial support. These usually require a separate application and may have earlier deadlines, so check the requirements as soon as possible.

• If your child needs specific learning support, look for schools with strong special educational needs (SEN) provision and clear policies on accommodating different needs.

3. Prepare for entrance exams (if relevant)

Entrance exams are part of the application process for grammar and many independent schools, but each school’s approach can be very different. The first step is to understand exactly what’s required and when.

Start by checking:

• School websites, as most schools will outline the subjects tested, exam format, and key dates on their website. They’ll likely have an ‘admissions’ or ‘entrance’ section outlining this information.
• Local authority websites, as your council may list grammar school testing arrangements and registration deadlines.
• School prospectuses are available online or on open days, often with more details on interviews or assessment days.
• Atom Learning’s school search tool. Here you can find your local grammar and independent schools and see their entry requirements, all in one place.

Key things to look for:

• Which subjects are tested - for example, English, maths, verbal reasoning (VR), or non-verbal reasoning (NVR).

• Exam format - multiple-choice papers, written responses, or computer-based tests.

• Exam dates - some take place in Year 5, others in Year 6, and many are before the CAF deadline (usually 31st October in Year 6).

• Interview requirements - Some independent schools invite children to an interview or assessment day to assess how they think, respond, and interact with others.

• Extra activities - some schools include additional tasks in the admissions process, such as a short piece of creative writing, working in a group to solve a problem, or taking part in practical challenges. These help the school see skills not shown in a written test.

Once you know the requirements for each school, the next step is to build a realistic, targeted preparation plan that will keep your child motivated.