Applying for secondary schools in 2027

The application process for secondary schools (including upper schools and university technical colleges) is now open.

Whether your child starts secondary or upper school next year or wishes to apply for a place at a university technical college, make sure you apply for a place in good time.

The easiest way to apply for a school place for September 2027 is to visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/admissions and complete the online application form.

If you apply online, you can:

• Access your application at any time
• Access your school offer before allocation letters are received
• Accept your school allocation online.

Last year, over 99% of parents applied this way and found the system quick, easy and secure.

The secondary transfer process (including applications to upper schools and university technology colleges) also opened on Tuesday 1 September 2026.

Information explaining the secondary and upper process will be circulated to families through their child’s primary, junior or middle school at the beginning of September.

The closing date for applications is 31 October 2026. It is vital that parents make their applications on time.

A quick and easy way of obtaining all the information you need about the secondary transfer process is by going to www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/admissions.

Parents without internet access can request a paper application form that must be returned direct to the Admissions and Transport Team. Application forms cannot be returned to primary or secondary schools.

Before making an application, parents and carers are strongly advised to read the information on the website thoroughly and where possible, attend school open events to help them make their preferences. Information outlining all the secondary and upper open events was circulated in July and the information is also available on the online school directory at www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/schoolsdirectory.

The Under 11s application process (for applications to primary, junior and middle schools) opens on 2 November 2026 and the closing date is 15 January 2027. Information will be circulated to parents and carers in early November.

Parents are advised to check www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/admissions for any updates to the published admission arrangements or timescales, and for advice on where to find extra help about applying for places.