School Applications

We’re delighted you’re considering our school community. Sefton Park is a truly special place, where we know each child by name, understand their individual needs, and celebrate their progress as they develop into confident, creative learners.

For current year deadlines and specific dates, visit our Current Admissions Information page.

Quick Overview

Essential information about joining our Reception:

Ages 4–5 (children who turn 4 between 1 September and 31 August are eligible for the following September)
60 reception places across our two reception classes
Applications are managed by Bristol City Council, not directly by the school
Applications typically open in autumn with a mid-January deadline
Offers sent out in April

Applying for Reception

Reception admissions are coordinated by Bristol City Council rather than individual schools. This centralised system ensures fair allocation of places across Bristol and manages the process of matching families with schools.

Application Process

Apply online through Bristol City Council's website. Applications typically open in the autumn term with a mid-January deadline. It's important to submit your application by the deadline, as late applications are processed after those submitted on time.

After You Apply

If you're offered a place at our school, we'll get in touch with you directly using the email address you provided to Bristol City Council. Please add our school email to your safe senders list and keep your contact details current with Bristol City Council to make sure you don't miss any important communications.

Offers are typically sent out in April – check our Current Admissions Information page for this year's specific date.

If your child isn't offered a place initially, you can join our waiting list through Bristol City Council. Places do sometimes become available, and we're happy to answer questions about the process.

Starting in Our Reception

We look forward to welcoming you to our school family. Once your place is confirmed, you'll get an invitation to our welcome evening, where you'll meet the supportive team who'll guide your child through their primary school journey.

Before your child starts in September, you'll be invited to our summer term stay-and-play sessions. These sessions help your child feel at home as you both explore our reception classrooms, chat with teachers, and meet other new families.

When September arrives, our phased induction allows each child to settle in at their own pace. We gradually build up to full school days, so everyone has time to feel comfortable and settled.

For detailed information about starting Reception, including frequently asked questions and our settling-in process, visit our Starting Reception page.

In-Year Applications

In-year applications are for children who need a place in Reception through Year 6 outside the usual September intake – perhaps because you've moved to the area, your circumstances have changed, or you're seeking a school place mid-year.

Application Process

As with reception applications, in-year admissions are handled by Bristol City Council. If you're offered a place, we'll contact you using the details from your council application.

Key Resources

Bristol City Council Applications:

Need Help?

Application questions: For anything about the application process, deadlines, or technical help with the online system, contact Bristol City Council School Admissions at school.admissions@bristol.gov.uk or call 0117 903 7694.

School information: If you’d like to know more about our school, our approach to learning, or what to expect as part of our community, please contact our office team – we're always here to help.