School age - when can your child start school?

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

Example: If your child was born between 1 September 2016 and 31 August 2017, they'll be able to start school in September 2021.

Responsibility for applying online

Birmingham City Council’s School Admissions and Fair Access Service publishes information on their website, informing parent/carers on how to start their child at school. However, the responsibility for applying online for a child to start reception class, remains solely with parent/carers.

When to apply

Parents can apply for a place in the Autumn of the year before their child turns 4 years of age. It is important that you apply for a place as soon as possible:

• attendance at a nursery class does not give a child automatic priority for a place
• do not wait until your child is five years old, or your preferred school may already be full