Secondary School Applications Open For West Sussex Pupils Starting in 2026

Parents and carers across West Sussex can now apply for secondary school places for children due to start in September 2026.

West Sussex County Council is reminding families that applications must be submitted by Friday 31 October 2025 to be considered on time.

Cllr Jacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said the council’s priority is to help young people “achieve their potential” and highlighted that almost 97% of pupils are placed in one of their top three school choices each year.

Applications can be made online through the council’s website, with instant confirmation once a form is submitted.

For those without internet access, paper forms are available and free computer use is offered in all West Sussex libraries.

Support is also on hand through the library service’s digital team on 0330 222 3455, or by contacting the Pupil Admissions Team on 03330 142903.

Parents are advised to:

• List three schools in order of preference when applying

• Include their catchment school, where applicable

• Remember that living in a catchment area does not guarantee a place

Families missing the deadline should still apply, as places are not allocated automatically.

For more details on admissions policies, open evenings and how to apply, visit the West Sussex County Council website.