Schools & study
New Vocational GCSEs in Britain: first subjects from 2029 and 200,000 work experience placements
On 23 September the government announced Vocational GCSEs, which will sit alongside traditional GCSEs and replace Technical Awards. The first subjects are promised from as early as September 2029, with technical pathways starting in September 2028. Employers are being asked for an extra 200,000 work experience placements for 14 to 16-year-olds.
Primary school applications close on 15 January: only 85% of Inner London children get their first choice
Applications for a Reception place from September 2027 are open now and close on 15 January 2027. They cover children born between 1 September 2022 and 31 August 2023. Offers land on 16 April. Across England 92.4% get their first preference; in Inner London it is 85.0%. And separately: school is not yet compulsory at four.
Secondary school applications close on 31 October: in London only 70% of children get their first choice
Applications for Year 7 entry in September 2027 close on 31 October 2026 — a Saturday, six weeks away. It covers children born between 1 September 2015 and 31 August 2016. Late applications are handled second, once the popular schools are full. Across England 83.6% of children get their first choice; in London it is 70.5%. And separately: a school cannot demand immigration documents.