Families of children currently in Year 5 are being encouraged to use the summer holidays to research their secondary school options ahead of changes to the application dates for September 2027 places.
The Welsh Government has brought forward the application window for secondary school admissions, meaning families will now need to submit their applications during the first term of their child’s Year 6 school year.
Applications for secondary school places starting in September 2027 will open on Friday 4th September 2026 and close on Friday 30th October 2026.
Cardiff Council is urging families to start preparing now by exploring the wide range of secondary schools available across the city, visiting school websites, reading Estyn inspection reports and considering factors such as travel arrangements before the application window opens.
Families are also reminded of the importance of applying on time and using all five school preferences available on the application form. Naming only one school can significantly reduce the chances of securing a place at a preferred school, while listing multiple preferences gives children the best opportunity of being offered a school that meets their needs.
Cardiff Council’s coordinated admissions scheme allows parents to name community schools and all partner schools within a single online application, making the process simpler and more straightforward for families.
For all applications to Cardiff high schools, parents must complete Cardiff Council’s Coordinated Admissions application form. Applicants for admission to faith-based schools may also need to complete a supplementary application form, available on the individual school’s website.
Free home to school transport is only available to secondary school pupils who live three miles or more from their appropriate catchment area school. If the catchment area school is full, free transport will only be given to the next nearest appropriate school that has a place available.
Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry, said: “The change to the national admissions timetable means parents and carers will need to start thinking about their secondary school choices earlier than in previous years. That’s why we’re encouraging families to make the most of the summer holidays to explore their options and familiarise themselves with the admissions process before applications open in September.
“Every secondary school in Cardiff has something unique to offer. Taking the time to research schools, visit websites, read inspection reports and think about practical considerations such as travel arrangements will help families make informed choices.
“One of the most important pieces of advice we can give is to use all five preferences available on the application form. Listing five preferences gives families the best possible chance of securing a place at one of their preferred schools. Even if you have a clear first choice, it is essential to consider and include alternative options.”
Welsh-medium education is available to everyone regardless of whether Welsh or English is spoken at home. Uned Drochi Iaith Caerdydd is nationally acclaimed and has supported nearly 500 children and young people since 2010. The unit provides a welcoming, inclusive environment for learners of all backgrounds, helping them gain the language skills needed to thrive in Welsh-medium education and feel a sense of belonging in their communities.
Further information about Welsh-medium education can be found here on our new Our City Our Language – Ein Dinas Ein Hiaith
Cllr Merry added: “We also want families to know that Welsh-medium education is open to everyone, regardless of whether Welsh is spoken at home or whether a child has attended a Welsh-medium primary school. Cardiff has excellent support available to help learners thrive in Welsh-medium education.”
