Now open: applications for secondary school admissions

Parents and carers across the Borough are being urged to get their child's secondary school application sent in.

Applications for children starting secondary school in September 2026 can be submitted from today (Monday, 8 September).

Here's everything you need to know.

How do I know if it is time to apply for my child?

If your child was born between 1 September 2014 and 31 August 2015, they are ready to start secondary school in September 2026.

Letters are being posted out to parents and carers of children in Year 6 which set out the application process. If you have not received a letter by 12 September, please contact the contact the school admissions team.

How do I apply?

The easiest way to apply is by filling out an online form on the School Admissions webpage.

You can also telephone 01642 526605 to request a paper copy or download a form from the Council's website.

Parents and carers can apply for up to four different schools for their child.

When is the application deadline?

Applications for secondary places in September 2026 will close at midnight on 31 October.

Any late applications will only be considered after those made on time have been processed.

When will I find out what place has been allocated to my child?

Anyone who applied online and chose to be notified via email will receive an email on 1 March 2026, or the next working day (known as National Offer Day) informing them of the school they have been offered.

Please note that offers will therefore be sent on Monday, 2 March 2026. You can log onto your My Council account where you can view your offer on the online portal.

Email notifications will be sent by the end of the day. Please check your "junk" folder if there's no sign of it.

If you did not apply online and submitted a paper application, or did not apply at all, you will get an offer letter in the post on or after National Offer Day.

What do Councillors think?

Councillor Clare Besford, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "The transition from primary to secondary school is a huge step for every child and their family, so I would encourage all parents to carefully consider their preferred schools and apply in good time.

"You can choose up to four different schools to give your child the best chance of being offered a place at one of your preferred schools, so make sure you do your research by viewing the school's website and prospectus, as well as going along to open evenings.

"If you have any questions about the application process, please contact our Schools Admissions Team who would be more than happy to help."

I need more information - where can I get it?

You can find out more by visiting the school admission webpage on the Council's website.

You can also contact the admissions team by calling 01642 526605 or via email at school.admissions@stockton.gov.uk. Secondary schools open evenings timetable can be viewed by visiting the .

For Council news direct to your inbox sign up to our My Council newsletter.