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Where can I find out how good my local school is?

The Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted) is a government department whose main aim is to help improve the quality and standards of education and childcare through independent inspection and regulation, and provide advice to the Secretary of State. Ofsted make all of their assessments of schools available for parents and other interested parties. These reports may help you in any decision you may be about to make as to which school to send your child to.

Category: Primary and Secondary Education

When do I need to register my child for primary or secondary school?

When you have made your choice of school, you need to apply in plenty of time for your application to be processed.

• You will usually need to apply for a primary school place well before your child reaches five - many schools admit children at four. Most local authorities ask you to apply for a place in the autumn the year before your child is due to start school, when they are three or four years old.
• You will usually need to apply for a secondary place in November or December in the year before your child is due to start at secondary school (i.e. when they are in Year 6).

Category: Primary and Secondary Education

What are the school term dates for primary and secondary schools?

Holiday dates are decided locally and can be obtained by contacting the relevant Local Education Authority.

Category: Primary and Secondary Education

Is my child entitled to two weeks away from primary or secondary school for family holidays?

No. Parents do not have a right to demand a pupil's leave of absence for a holiday. Schools have a discretionary power to grant leave of up to 10 days for the purpose of an annual holiday. Parents or guardians should contact the Headteacher well in advance of planned holiday, giving the reason for taking time off during the term, instead of using statutory school holidays for the trip. They are advised to apply in writing at least two weeks before the trip.

Remember - taking your child out of school during termtime without authorisation is illegal - you could face a fine of up to £2,500 per child.

Category: Primary and Secondary Education

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What are the term dates for higher education institutions?

Term dates vary from institution to institution but generally include:

• an autumn term which runs from September to December,
• a spring term which runs from January to March, and
• a summer term which runs from April to June.

Consult individual institutions for specific dates.

Category: Higher Education

I have been offered a place at university and have given them my firm acceptance. However, I've changed my mind - can I now decline and enter Clearing instead?

Your firm acceptance to an institution is a serious commitment and you cannot simply decline the place if you change your mind. You must contact the university or college concerned to discuss your reasons for wishing to decline their offer.

Category: Higher Education

I haven't applied to UCAS this year. Can I enter Clearing?

Yes. First of all, complete a UCAS application (you can do this online), then once UCAS has processed your application (usually within 4 days) they will send you a Clearing Entry Form (CEF).

Category: Higher Education

Can I apply for a student loan if I have previously studied in higher education?

If you have previously studied in higher education, you may be eligible to apply for a loan for general maintenance but not to cover tuition fees for your course. Your Local Authority will tell you if you are eligible to apply for a loan again.

Category: Higher Education

I have decided not to continue with my course, will I be eligible for financial support in the future?

Leaving your course early could affect your eligibility for financial support if you decide to take another course in the future. How your eligibility is affected will depend on your personal circumstances. Contact your Local Authority for advice.

Category: Higher Education