Primary School Offer Day can bring a wave of emotions—either joy that your child has received a place at your preferred school, or concern and uncertainty if the outcome wasn’t what you were hoping for.
Starting school is a major milestone, and we know how emotional and overwhelming this time can be. At Elmhurst, we’ve created this practical guide to help you take the right steps, whether you’ve secured your top choice or are exploring alternatives.
Step 1: Review Your Offer
Offers from local authorities are typically sent via email, post, or through an online portal. Double-check your spam or junk folders to make sure you don’t miss anything important.
Step 2: Carefully Read the Details
Take your time reviewing the offer. Note which school has been allocated and make a record of key dates like the start of term and induction sessions.
Step 3: Weigh Up Your Next Steps
If you’re pleased with the school offered—fantastic! You can begin preparing for this exciting new chapter. But if you’re unhappy with the allocation, don’t panic—there are several options to consider.
Option 1: Appeal the School Placement
You have the right to appeal if you feel your child’s place was allocated unfairly. Be prepared to present your case with supporting evidence. While results aren’t guaranteed, appeals can sometimes be successful and are worth pursuing if you believe strongly in your case.
Option 2: Add Your Child to a Waiting List
Many schools maintain waiting lists, and your child’s position can move depending on a variety of factors. These lists are governed by specific admissions criteria—so even if you’re not offered a spot right away, there’s still a chance later on.
Option 3: Explore Independent School Options
If local state schools aren’t aligning with your expectations or your child’s needs, you might consider an independent school. These schools operate outside of local authority control, offering more flexibility in admissions and often a more personalised learning experience.
At Elmhurst, we tailor education for girls and boys, nurturing their development through individual attention, small class sizes, and a broad, inspiring curriculum that goes beyond academics.
Thinking About an Independent School? Here’s What to Do:
Explore school websites, read prospectuses, and look at independent school comparison guides to get a feel for what each school offers.
Understand the Costs
While independent education may seem financially out of reach, many schools offer bursaries, scholarships, and flexible payment options. At Elmhurst, for example, fees can be split into eleven interest-free monthly instalments to help with budgeting. You can view the breakdown of our fees here.
Visit the School
Visiting in person gives you a real sense of the school’s atmosphere. At Elmhurst, we offer private tours with the Head at times that suit your schedule—no need to wait for an open day.
If you would like to register for our next open day on April 28th, please click here. We look forward to welcoming you to Elmhurst Prep School.
