School age - when your child can start school

Children in Birmingham can start school (reception) in the September after their fourth birthday.

If your child was born between 1 September 2022 and 31 August 2023, they can start school in September 2027.

Responsibility for applying online

We publish information on our website to tell parents and carers about how to start their child at school. However, parents or carers are solely responsible for applying online for a reception class place for their child.

When to apply

You can apply for a place in the autumn of the year before your child turns 4 years. You must apply for a place by the national closing date of 15 January 2027.

Attending a nursery class at a school does not give your child automatic priority for a place in that school’s reception. You must apply for a place at that school for September 2027.

Do not wait until your child is 5 years old, as your preferred school may already be full by the time you apply.

Page last updated: 15 September 2026