Schools for migrant children
Schools guidance for migrant families.
Finding a school
In the UK, children must be in education from the term after their fifth birthday.
- Winter term: 1 September to 31 December
- Spring term: 1 January to 31 March
- Summer term: 1 April to 31 August
Children can start school the term after their fourth birthday.
| Age | School type | Year group(s) | Curriculum stage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4–5 | Primary | Reception | Foundation Stage |
| 5–7 | Primary | Years 1 and 2 | Key Stage 1 |
| 7–11 | Primary | Years 3–6 | Key Stage 2 |
| 11–14 | Secondary | Years 7–9 | Key Stage 3 |
| 14–16 | Secondary | Years 10 and 11 | Key Stage 4 |
School places are managed by Oxfordshire County Council's Schools Admissions Team. You are allowed to choose up to four preferences. It is not always possible to keep siblings together.
Getting to school
If your child is eligible for free school transport, the council's School Transport team will review your application and provide the next steps.
If your child is not eligible, you are required to make your own arrangements for getting your child to and from school.
Further help
These guides help parents understand the education system. They are translated into the 22 most common first languages in UK schools.
- About the English education system
- Helping children learn
- Special Educational Needs support for children aged 0-4
- Early education funding
- Children with special needs