Applications for primary school places in Cardiff for September 2026 are now officially open. This is a crucial time for families preparing to transition their children into the Reception class.
Families are strongly encouraged to apply on time and, most importantly, to utilise all five preference options available on the application form. Maximising your preferences significantly increases your chance of securing a place at a school of your choice.
Crucial Reminder: A new application must be submitted for a Reception class place, even if your child already attends the school’s nursery. Attendance at a nursery does not grant automatic entitlement to a place in the Reception class.
Every area in Cardiff is proudly served by a variety of schools, ensuring a broad choice for all families. These include: Welsh-medium community primary, English-medium community primary, Church in Wales primary and Catholic primary schools.
Applications for community primary schools (both English and Welsh-medium) are made directly to the Council via the online admissions system.
The Council now coordinates admissions for 22 of the 23 faith primary schools. This is a major benefit for parents, as it allows you to list both community and faith schools within a single online application.
Please note: The only exception to the coordinated scheme is St John Lloyd RC. Applications for this school must be made directly to the school itself.
For a full list of the 22 faith schools in the coordinated scheme and more detailed admissions information, please visit the Council’s official Primary School Admissions page.
Welsh-medium community primary schools are open to all families, regardless of whether Welsh is spoken at home. This path offers children the opportunity to become fluent in both Welsh and English.
If your child has no prior Welsh language experience, the Uned Drochi Iaith Caerdydd (Cardiff’s Welsh Immersion Unit) is available. Since 2010, the unit has successfully helped over 400 learners achieve fluency before transferring into Welsh-medium schools.
You can find further details on the vision and benefits of Welsh-medium education here: Our City Our Language – Ein Dinas Ein Hiaith.
Cllr Sarah Merry, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, reiterated the Council’s commitment to supporting families through the process:
“We want to make applying for a primary school place as straightforward as possible. By helping families understand the admissions process, more children can secure a place at one of their preferred schools. Our ongoing campaign has led to more parents applying correctly and on time, ensuring no family is disadvantaged.”
“Remember, parents can list up to five preferred schools. With 22 faith schools now part of Cardiff’s coordinated admissions, families can apply for both community and faith schools through the Council’s portal.”
Cllr Merry continued: “Welsh-medium education is available to all and helps children become fluent in both Welsh and English. Our vision for a bilingual Cardiff means every young person can experience and enjoy Welsh daily, broadening their skills and opportunities.”
Don’t delay! Visit the Council’s online admissions portal today to secure your child’s place for September 2026.
Photography by Inksplott
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