Applications are now being taken for places for students who are due to start Year 7 in 2026, and parents and carers are encouraged to complete theirs online at School admissions as soon as possible.

Here are some top tips to guide people through the process:

• Don’t forget the deadline – applications must be submitted by midnight on Friday 31 October, 2025; ensuring applications are made by then can increase your chance of securing a place at a preferred school.
• Visit the schools – open days are a great way to get a feel for a school, and all secondary schools in Wolverhampton are holding open events to give you the opportunity to see what’s on offer.
• Explore the Secondary Education guide available in downloads section, it includes key details about each school, open day dates, and admission statistics.
• Understand the admissions criteria – every secondary school has its own admissions policy, which is published on individual schools’ websites. Read it before applying for a place.
• Keep your options open – online applications can be amended up until the deadline of Friday 31 October, 2025, so you can change your mind if you wish.
• Use all 5 preferences – you can list up to 5 schools in order of preference to improve the chance of getting a place that suits your child.

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education said: “If your child has just started their final year at primary or junior school, now is the time to start thinking about their secondary school place for next year.

“That may seem a long way off, but the closing date for applications for secondary school places is the end of next month. This is one of the most important decisions you can make for your child, so please think carefully, follow these top tips and, most importantly, don’t miss the deadline.”

For more help and advice, visit School admissions or call the Admissions and Appeals Team on 01902 551122.

Anyone who needs help making their online application is invited to attend one of the School Application Surgeries being held at the Civic Centre, St Peter’s Square, Wolverhampton, WV1 1SH on Thursdays 9, 16, 23 and 30 October from 10am to 2pm.