If your child was born between 1 September 2019 and 31 August 2020, it is now time to apply for a primary school place.

As the Cabinet Member responsible for Education in Bexley, I know how important it is to find a school that is suitable for your son or daughter and how important it is to prepare them for starting school.

I am very proud of Bexley schools and the education they offer. I know how much teachers care for their classes, and I know how keen they are to see every child happy and enjoying their education. Schools are not just places for formal lessons - many have pre-school and after-school activities as well as thriving clubs and activities at lunchtime, and all schools will seek to involve you in the education of your child. They are social hubs in their local communities, and many have very active parent-teacher associations.

I would urge every parent to make contact with their local schools and to ask questions. Contact details for each school can be found in Primary schools in Bexley. Enquire at the schools you are interested in to find out when their open days are.

Apply for your child's place

You can also download a mobile app to help you manage your application and to see your offer on 16 April.

Applications can be made any time between 1 September 2023 and 15 January 2024. This allows you plenty of time to visit schools and think about which might be best for your child. Applications are not dealt with on a “first come, first served” basis, but please do make sure you apply before 15 January 2024, as applications received after this date may not be considered until after National Offer Day, which could mean you may not get a school you prefer.

Please remember, too, to name 6 schools that you would like to apply for. Many of our schools fill up with children living very close by. Although last year, over 89% of families were offered a place at their first preference school and over 98% received one of their first three preferences, we cannot promise that this will be the case this year. Including the nearest school to your home as one of your preferences will give you the best chance of being offered a local school.

If you have any further questions about the process of applying, please do contact us.

Finally, I’d like to take this opportunity to wish your son or daughter every success and happiness at their new school.

Councillor Caroline Newton
Cabinet Member for Education

School Admissions Team

Civic Offices
2 Watling Street
Bexleyheath
DA6 7AT

Telephone 020 8303 7777

Email schooladmissions@bexley.gov.uk