Hartlepool has two main ways to apply, depending on the school place you need: reception places for starting school, and in-year transfers if your child is moving schools during the year. In both cases, you can apply online, and Hartlepool also offers paper forms.
| School place | How to apply | Extra details |
|---|---|---|
| Reception place | apply online | Hartlepool says all preferences are treated equally. If you live in Hartlepool and applied online, you’ll get your offer by email on Thursday 16 April 2026. |
| Reception place at a primary school | apply online | Same process as above. If you applied on paper, the offer will be sent by email if you gave one, or by second-class post if you didn’t. |
| In-year school place | apply online using the Parent Portal | You need an in-year school transfer application form. Hartlepool says to complete a separate application for each child and include supporting documents where needed. |
For in-year applications, Hartlepool says paper copies are available from the School Admissions Team on 01429 284368. If your child has an EHCP, don’t complete an in-year application — contact your SEN Officer instead.