Admissions

We are delighted that you are considering Orchard Meadows School for your child.

We understand what a big decision it is to choose the right school for your child, so encourage all parents to come and see us in action. To book a visit please call us on 01865 778609 or email office@orchardmeadow.org.

How to apply

Applications to our school are processed by Oxfordshire County Council. To apply for a place, you will need to complete the online application form. Once your place has been approved by Oxfordshire County Council they will let us know. 

Full details and advice on academy admissions can be found on the Oxfordshire City Council website, through the admissions policy detailed below, or you can call Oxfordshire Schools Admission Team for further advice on 01865 815175.

It is parents’ responsibility to apply directly to the Council, but the school can offer support and guidance upon request. 

In-Year Admissions

We accept admissions in year into any year group provided there is availability. To apply for a place, please visit https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/schools/apply-school-place/year-transfers and complete the online form.

Appeals

Parents/carers whose application for a place is unsuccessful, have the right to appeal the decision. This must be expressed in accordance with the Schools Admissions Criteria. Should you wish to appeal, please visit https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/schools/apply-school-place/school-appeals

Applying for a place in Primary School

Thank you for considering Orchard Meadows Primary School for your child.

At our academy, we provide a safe and nurturing environment, where children are encouraged to learn and flourish. We offer a broad curriculum designed to meet the needs of all children including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Our dedicated staff work hard to make sure that each child can fulfil their potential.

How to apply

Applications to our Reception class can be made through Oxfordshire County Council at https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/schools/apply-school-place . 

Starting school: applications for Reception: 2026

All Reception applications are managed directly by OCC through the infant and primary applications section of their website.

Parents of children born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2022 (inclusive) need to apply for an infant or primary school place for September 2026.

We do not process any applications directly but can support parents to complete applications.

Please note that the deadline for applications to be submitted for 2026 admission is 15 January 2026.  Click through the information below to find out more about Orchard Meadow School.

Key dates when applying for Reception

Key dates	Event
4 November 2025	Applications open.
15 January 2026	Closing date for applications.
16 April 2026	National offer day: look online, receive email and letters are sent out by second class post where needed.
September 2026	Start of the school year.

Secondary applications for Year 7: 2026

Parents of children born between 1 September 2014 and 31 August 2015 (inclusive) need to apply for a secondary school place for September 2026.

All secondary applications are managed directly by OCC through the secondary applications section of their website.

We do not process any applications directly but can support parents to complete applications.

Key dates when applying for secondary school

Key dates	Event
12 September 2025	Applications open.
31 October 2025	Closing date for applications.
2 March 2026	National offer day: look online, receive email and letters are sent out by second class post where needed.
September 2026	Start of the school year.

Deferring Reception Applications

Summer Born Chidren & Delaying Admission

These are pupils whose date of birth fall between 1 April and 31 August.

Summer born children can delay the start of school until the September after their 5th birthday, a full academic year after they could first have started school.

The DFE has produced guidance for parents on this matter and what to factors to be aware of if considering this for your child at GOV.UK: Summer born children - advice for parents.

Parents of summer born children are entitled to delay the admission of the child into full-time school until CSA but should be aware that the entitlement is for children entering Y1 when they start school.

If you want to delay admission for your summer born child until CSA, you must submit a formal request to the Admission Authority. If approved, your child will be educated out of year group.

Requests can be made by emailing Oxfordshire County Council. 

Include why delayed admission is in your child’s best interests and refer to any special, social or medical needs. Where possible, provide any supporting information you may have from relevant professionals.