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 2020 and 31 August 2021, they will be able to start school in September 2025.
Responsibility for applying online
Birmingham City Council's School Admissions and Fair Access Service publishes information on its website, informing parents or carers how to start their child at school. However, the responsibility for applying online for a child to start reception class remains solely with parents or carers.
When to apply
Parents can apply for a place in the Autumn of the year before their child turns 4. You must 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
Page last updated: 21 August 2024
