Admissions
Why Choose Pool-in-Whafedale CE Primary?
We are proud of our welcoming community, nurturing ethos, and high standards of teaching and learning. Our small, friendly school offers a caring environment where every child is known as an individual and supported to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. As part of the Otley, Pool and Bramhope Family of Schools, we also benefit from strong partnerships that support a smooth transition into secondary education, including a feeder link with Prince Henry’s Grammar School.
Visits
We warmly welcome visits—come and see what makes Pool such a special place to start your child’s educational journey.
You can arrange a visit to the school by contacting the office via info@poolprimarysch.org.uk
Reception Admissions – September 2025
We are a voluntary controlled school, and admissions to Reception are managed by Leeds City Council, who set the admissions policy.
How to Apply
If your child is due to start school in September 2025, you must apply through your home local authority (the council that collects your council tax or empties your bins).
If you're in Leeds, visit www.leeds.gov.uk/apply to make your application online.
This site includes step by step details of how to apply and what to expect during the process.
Applications must be submitted by the deadline set by Leeds City Council. Offers will be made on National Offer Day in April 2025.
You can also watch a helpful video from Leeds City Council about applying for a school place here.
In-Year Applications
If you’re moving to the area or want to change schools, this is known as an in-year transfer. We welcome applications from families looking to join our school community at any time.
Leeds City Council has delegated in-year admissions decisions to our Governing Body.
How to Apply for an In-Year Place
Visit the dedicated section of the Leeds City Council website and complete the online in-year application form
We aim to respond to all in-year applications within 15 school days.
If we cannot offer a place, we will:
- Provide a written explanation
- Add your child to our waiting list (held until the end of the school year)
- Explain how to appeal
Appeals
If your child is not offered a place, you have the right to appeal the decision. Appeals are heard by an independent panel whose decision is final.
To make an appeal visit the Leeds City Council website.
Please Note: Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 classes are legally capped at 30 pupils per teacher. Appeals in these year groups are only successful in limited circumstances.