Choosing a school, or moving school, can be a challenging time for any family. At St Mary's we want to do everything we can to help you make the correct decision for you and your children. 

Below are simple details of which children we admit and when. We have many families who join us during a school year from within Banbury, Oxfordshire, the UK and from all parts of the World. Our children and staff are very used to welcoming new pupils to their class and there is always someone who can help a new child to settle in. 

We would love you to see St Mary's in action and invite you to contact school to arrange a tour around during the school day. You will have a chance to meet pupils and staff and ask any questions you might have. Please contact school directly to arrange this. 

More detailed information about the admissions process and how to apply for a school place, either at the start of school or during the school year, are available by contacting the school office on 01295 263026 or by popping in to see them. They will be very happy to help you. 

Other details and policy can be found at https://www2.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/admissions-infant-and-primary-schools

Some general information:

• Children are admitted into the class they will be the higher age of before 31st August of the current academic year.
  • EYFS – 3-5yrs
  • Y1 – 5-6 yrs
  • Y2 – 6-7yrs
  • Y3 – 7-8yrs
  • Y4 – 8-9yrs
  • Y5 – 9-10yrs
  • Y6 – 10-11yrs
• For example, children becoming 6yrs old between September 1st 2019 and August 31st 2020 will be admitted to Year 1.
• Children are not admitted to lower or higher age groups.
• Children may join the Nursery in Fledgling class for a minimum of 15 hours (mornings only) during the term following their 3rd birthday. Full time, 30 hours, per week is also available. Government funding may be available to parents to support some or all of this provision. Please ask the school office for more details. See our Early Years Page for more details. (Button?)
• Compulsory school starts for children in the school year following their 4th birthday. St Mary's operates a single date of admission policy for children in September of the year they will be 5yrs. In 2020-21, children born between September 1st 2015 and August 31st 2016 will be admitted to Reception year in Fledgling class.

To view our Admissions policies, please use the links below

Admissions Policy 2019/20

Admissions Policy 2020/21