Fiducia TogetherChanging school
Moving a child mid-year: how to do it, and what to weigh first.
Please note: This page explains a word or a process in education. It is general information about the system, the law and the guidance in England — not advice about your child, your school or your exam. If a decision is going against you, get advice from one of the free services we link to before you agree to anything or miss a deadline. If you are revising, check your own exam board's specification: boards word things differently and yours is the one that marks you.
What it is
An in-year move requires an in-year admission application and, where there is an EHCP, an amendment naming the new school.
Where it applies
Any family considering a move, whether after a house move or because a placement is not working.
How it works
A move resets relationships, support and friendships as well as the problem. Sometimes that is exactly what is needed and sometimes the same difficulties reappear within a term.\n\nWith an EHCP the council must consult the new school and amend the plan, which takes weeks — the place cannot simply be taken.
What you can ask for
Before moving, ask what has been tried and what the new school will do differently. If the answer is nothing specific, the move may not change much.
Visit and ask directly how they support your child's needs.
With an EHCP, start the amendment process early. Do not remove your child from the current school before the new placement is confirmed.
Where to get help
SENDIASS for free local advice, IPSEA and Contact nationally, and your school's own policy.
Where to read more
Last reviewed 2026-08-28 by Fiducia Together · Next review due 2027-08-28
Please note: This page explains a word or a process in education. It is general information about the system, the law and the guidance in England — not advice about your child, your school or your exam. If a decision is going against you, get advice from one of the free services we link to before you agree to anything or miss a deadline. If you are revising, check your own exam board's specification: boards word things differently and yours is the one that marks you.