Deferred and delayed school entry

Starting school later, or outside the normal year group. Possible, and not automatic.

What it is

Children must be in education from the term after their fifth birthday, though most start in the September after they turn four. Parents may defer entry within the reception year, or request admission out of the normal age group.

Where it applies

Any child, and it comes up most for summer-born children and for children with SEND or prematurity.

How it works

Deferral within the year is a parental right for children not yet of compulsory school age. Admission to a LOWER year group is a request, decided by the admissions authority on the individual circumstances, and there is no automatic right.

A decision must be made on the individual case, and blanket policies refusing all such requests are not lawful.

What you can ask for

Ask early — ideally before applying — and put the request in writing with evidence: medical, developmental, educational.

Ask for the reasons in writing if refused, and check whether the decision considered your child individually.

Ask what happens at secondary transfer, because a decision made at four does not bind the secondary admissions authority.

Where to get help

Your council's admissions team, the DfE's guidance on summer-born children, and Child Law Advice.