1. Thursday 26 th May 2016 Secondary School Admissions

2. What is the aim of tonight’s meeting? To explain the application process for Trafford and non-Trafford residents How to complete the application form The Grammar Schools process Tips to help you apply How Heyes Lane can support you

3. How does the application process work? For Trafford Residents You must apply to Trafford LEA Applications can be made online or in paper form (CAF: Common Application Form) The CAF paper application and guidance notes will be sent to your home address on September 12 th. The online application system opens in early September. http://www.trafford.gov.uk/residents/schools/admissions/admissio ns.aspx To apply online you will need your own unique Online Record Number; this is included on your paper application form (CAF). If you do not have/or lose your Online Record Number you should contact the School Admissions Team on 912 5007 or by email: school.admissions@trafford.gov.uk school.admissions@trafford.gov.uk All paper or online applications need to be received by 31 st October 2016

4. How does the application process work? Non-Trafford Residents You must apply to your local authority You will receive a paper application form in the post If you are a Manchester resident you can apply online at: http://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/705/school_ad missions/ Check with individual authorities for closing dates

5. How to complete the application form Information Booklet, “Transferring to Secondary Schools - September 2017” which is available to view online or to download at www.trafford.gov.uk. Basic information about your child Reasons - be relevant to the oversubscription criteria of the school. Only apply one way, online or paper form, you do not have to do both! Preferences

6. How to complete the application form Preferences List the school you really want first. Don’t be put off just because you don’t live in the catchment area. You can choose any school you like, in any order, regardless of where you live. Remember that applicants that live within a catchment area will be given a higher priority than you. You are advised to use one of your choices for your catchment area school even if that is only your last choice. If you live in the catchment area for 2 schools you are advised to include both of them. This will not stop you being offered another school that you have listed higher but it will mean you have a better chance of being offered a place in a local school if you cannot be offered any of your other choices. All Local Authorities use an equal preference or "blind preference" system. Fill in all six choices. If you are applying to Grammar schools put those first on the list.

7. The Grammar School process Each Grammar School in Trafford has its own entrance examination. If you wish your child to take part in these examinations, you must apply to the relevant school. Most entrance examinations take place in early September Each test is different but many focus on verbal and non-verbal reasoning, maths and creative writing. Put the Grammar Schools first on your admissions application form as they will be automatically dismissed if your child does not pass the entrance exams.

8. Heyes Lane Puzzle Club A chance to practise verbal and non-verbal reasoning tests On a Monday night every two weeks 3.30-4.30 Letts Practice Test Papers

9. Tips for Applying to Secondary School Attend open days – normally June/July/September Fill in all six options Include at least one school in your authority Ensure the form is in by the 31 st October deadline Place Grammar Schools first on the list Make sure Heyes Lane has your correct address Think what is best for YOUR child!

10. How can Heyes Lane help you? Speak to your child’s class teacher Help with filling out the form Attend Puzzle Club (if relevant) Help with appeals Prepare them for Secondary School

11. Any questions?