Checklist for applications to defer or delay

Local authorities and school admissions boards all do things slightly differently across the UK. If you want to defer or delay your child’s primary school place, you should contact your local authority. They will tell you what you need to do and when the application needs to be completed by.

If you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, it is likely that you will be asked to:

1. Explain why your child should be educated outside of their normal age group.
   
   
2. Provide evidence to support your request.

1. Explain why your child should be educated outside of their normal age group

Tell the authority why you are asking for your child’s school place to be delayed/deferred and why you think this is the best outcome for your child.

Things you might include:

• Their expected birth date and actual birth date. Your application is more likely to be given serious consideration if your premature child was born:

- 1 June to 31 August (England and Wales)

- 1 April to 1 July (Northern Ireland)

• Information about their premature birth and early life experiences, such as the time they spent in neonatal care.

• Any conditions they have been diagnosed with, such as ADHA or autism.

• Any challenges you have noticed, such as difficulties communicating, poor coordination, or issues with self care (e.g. getting themselves dressed).

2. Evidence (documents) that support your views

Things you might include:

• Statements from keyworkers in your child's early life, such as social workers, nursery staff or other early years providers who have cared for your child.

• Copies of letter from any medical professionals involved in their care. This might include:

- Consultant or specialist (e.g. paediatrician or neurologist)

- Speech and language therapist

- Occupational therapist

- Physiotherapist

- Educational psychologist

- GP

• Statement or letter from a headteacher, SENDCo or any other staff from the school or schools you would like your child to attend.

• Copy of an Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP), Health Care Plan, Coordinated Support Plan or Statement of Special Educational Needs.

• Copy of Bliss' letter of support for delaying or deferring places for premature summer-born or young for year babies.