A message to parents

If your child was born between 1 September 2012 and 31 August 2013, it is now time to apply for a secondary school place.

I am very pleased that you are considering a Bexley secondary school for your child. In Bexley, we have outstanding, good and improving schools which achieve very good results for the young people who attend them. Whatever your child’s interest or ability, Bexley has the right school to help them achieve their potential, to be happy and to thrive as they grow up.

The transition at age 11 from primary to secondary school is an important time and you need as much information as possible about the schools and the application process in order for you, with your child, to make the right choice. There are some very clear deadlines for applications which you can find further down on this page.

All schools have their own websites which we encourage you to explore to find out as much as you can, but visiting during an open day or evening is essential for you to find out just what the school is really like and the opportunities offered to its pupils. Contact details for each school can be at Secondary schools in Bexley.

You can also apply for a Year 10 place in a University Technical College or other 14+ provision through the School Admissions Team in the same way as a Year 7 place.

To apply for your child’s place, please go to Starting secondary school. You can also download a mobile app to help you manage your application and to see your offer on 1 March 2024.

Applications can be made any time between 1 September 2023 and 31 October 2023. This allows you plenty of time to visit schools and think about which might be best for you child. Applications are not dealt with on a “first come, first served” basis, but please do make sure you apply by 31 October 2023, 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.

The Council wants every child in Bexley to achieve their full potential. The world of work is changing rapidly and this creates a challenge for us all. We are working with schools, colleges, training providers and employers to ensure that the right learning pathways are accessible, supported by excellent careers guidance.

We are also keen to engage with parents and carers to help raise awareness of the opportunities available for their children and to ensure they are able to support their aspirations for the future. Further information will be provided on the Council’s website during the autumn term.

I wish your child every happiness and success in their new school. 

Councillor Caroline Newton, Cabinet Member for Education

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

Important dates

  • 1 September 2023 - Online application website opens
  • 11 September 2023 - Bexley selection test begins
  • 13 September to 21 October 2023 - Open days/evenings for schools
  • 20 October 2023 - Last date for paper CAFs to be handed in to primary schools Closing date for supplementary information forms to be returned to St Catherine’s Catholic School
  • 31 October 2023 - Closing date for supplementary information forms to be returned to St Columba’s Catholic Boys School
  • 31 October 2023 - Final closing date for application forms to be submitted, either online or paper
  • 2 November 2023 - Closing date for supplementary information form to be sent to Trinity CE School Belvedere
  • 8 December 2023 - Last date for change of address
  • 1 March 2024 - Offers of places made online. Letters will be posted 1st class to applicants who applied using a paper form
  • 15 March 2024 - Last date for accepting and declining offers of places