Two reception children enjoying a book in the library

Didn’t Get Your Preferred Primary School Place? Here’s What to Do Next

Posted: 17th April 2025

Primary School Offer Day can stir up a whole mix of emotions – excitement, relief and for many, uncertainty or even disappointment. If you didn’t get your first-choice school for your child, it’s completely normal to feel unsettled. But here’s the truth – you still have choices. In fact, this could be the perfect opportunity to step back, reassess, and choose a school where your child isn’t just a name on a register, but a valued individual on a journey to thrive.

At The Webber Independent School, we believe that every child deserves more than just a place – they deserve a launchpad for lifelong confidence, curiosity and achievement. If you’re feeling unsure today, we want you to know, you’re not out of options. You’re just at the beginning of something better.

Step 1 – Pause, Breathe, and Review the Offer: First things first, double-check your offer. It’s easy to miss key details in the initial wave of emotion. Look for emails or letters from your local authority and make note of your allocated school, key deadlines and any upcoming induction dates.

Step 2 – Know Your Rights and Your Routes: If you’re unhappy with the school offered, there are several next steps you can take:

  • Option 1: Appeal the Decision

You have the legal right to appeal if you believe the school place wasn’t allocated fairly. Just be prepared to gather supporting documentation and manage expectations, as appeals aren’t guaranteed to succeed.

  • Option 2: Join a Waiting List

Your child can be added to waiting lists for other schools, even if you’ve accepted a current offer. Movement on these lists is common, especially as other families make decisions or relocate.

  • Option 3: Consider an Independent School

This is where things get exciting.

If your current options aren’t aligning with your values or your child’s needs, an independent school might just be the game-changer you hadn’t yet considered. Here at The Webber Independent School, we’re ready to welcome you.

Why The Webber Could Be the Best Decision You Ever Make

When you join Webber, you’re not just securing a school place—you’re opening the door to an education that places your child’s potential, happiness, and wellbeing at the centre.

  • Small Class Sizes

Your child will never be lost in the crowd. With smaller classes, our teachers get to know each student as a unique learner, tailoring support and challenge to fit them perfectly.

  • Personalised Learning Pathways

We don’t do “one size fits all.” Our values-led, future-focused curriculum supports children to grow academically and emotionally from Day One.

  • Exceptional Parent Satisfaction

In our latest Parent Survey, 100% of families said their child feels safe and happy at school. When asked what makes Webber special, parents consistently praised our nurturing community, excellent pastoral care and outstanding teaching team.

  • A True Sense of Belonging

At Webber, your child isn’t just joining a school, they’re joining a family. From our Early Years right through to Senior School, children flourish in a warm, inclusive environment designed to bring out the best in every individual.

We know that choosing the right school is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a parent. That’s why we’re inviting you to join us for our Reception Virtual Information Evening on Monday 22nd April at 7:30pm. This is your chance to:

  • Meet our Headmistress and Head of Prep
  • Discover our Reception curriculum and school life
  • Ask questions in a relaxed, informative setting
  • Find out how to secure a place for your child at The Webber

Places are limited, so don’t delay. Register your interest here and take the first step toward a school experience where your child will be known, supported and inspired every single day.

Not getting your preferred school might feel like a setback, but it could be the best redirection you’ve ever had. Book your place at our Virtual Information Evening today or get in touch to arrange a personal tour. Because at Webber, we don’t just offer school places, we offer futures full of promise.

Categories: Blogs
Virtual Reception Information Evening: Tuesday 22nd April

Join us online to learn all about our exceptional Reception setting, and experience the Webber Buzz from the comfort of your own home!

Book your place here!