How school admissions and catchments affect a move

01

Nearby is only discovery

A radius search tells you which establishments are geographically close to a postcode point. It does not know the admission authority’s measurement point, oversubscription rules, available places or your child’s circumstances.

02

Read the actual criteria

In England, criteria differ by school and may prioritise factors such as looked-after status, distance, siblings, faith, selective tests, feeder schools or pupil-premium eligibility. Some schools use catchment areas; proximity can still matter differently inside and outside one.

• Use the policy for the intended admission year.
• Check who sets the arrangements and where applications are submitted.
• Confirm how home address and distance are defined.
• Review tie-breaks and evidence deadlines.

03

Build a resilient shortlist

Visit schools, understand the order-of-preference process and include realistic options. If moving from another area or country, contact the relevant council about proof of address and timing. Independent schools and sixth forms can use different application routes.