Admission rules for Hertfordshire community and voluntary-controlled primary schools

Rule 1: Looked after children.
This also includes children who used to be looked after, but were then adopted (or given a residence order or special guardianship order).

Rule 2: Medical or social need.
Supply supporting evidence with your application, as unless there are exceptional circumstances, it won't be considered at a later point (eg at appeal). Your evidence should be from a doctor, psychologist or other professional involved with your child. It must relate specifically to the school you are applying to, and should clearly demonstrate why it is the only school that can meet your child's needs. Medical priority is given to children who have an exceptional illness or disability (for example, restricted mobility) which means that they can only go to one school. Social priority is given to children whose education would be seriously affected if they did not go to a particular school. The evidence will be assessed by a panel of officers.

Rule 3: Linked school.
Only applies if your child is currently attending an infant school and applying to the linked junior school. You will need to make an application when your child is in year 2.

Rule 4: Sibling at the school.
The sibling has to be on the roll of the school or linked school at the time of application. Plus, the sibling must still be at the school when the next child starts - so you won't be eligible if the sibling is in their final year. (For in-year applications, it doesn't matter which year the sibling is in). A sibling means the sister, brother, half brother or sister, adopted brother or sister, or child of the parent/carer or partner. The sibling must live in the same house as your child from Monday to Friday.

Rule 5: Nearest school.
It's your nearest community or voluntary-controlled school or other school/academy following Herts CC's rules. You will only qualify under Rule 5 for one community/VC school – find out which one by calling Hertfordshire County Council on 0300 123 4043. Please see list below of other schools/academies that could qualify as your Rule 5 school.
Tiebreaker: distance to the school (closest applicants take priority).

Rule 6: Distance. Children who live nearest to the school.
Note: If you don't qualify under Rules 1-5, you'll qualify under Rule 6.
Tiebreaker: distance to the school (closest applicants take priority)

Top tip: Not sure what your closest community or VC school is? Ask Herts CC (tel: 0300 123 4043). While you're waiting for a response, use Rule 6 in the Admission Calculator. If you're interested in the school, that's your worst case scenario.

Please note: Any child with a statement of special educational needs, that names the school, will be offered a place (because that’s the law!).