Admission Arrangements 2026-27
(For children due to start Reception in September 2026)
Choosing a school for your child is an important decision, and we understand how much thought goes into finding the right place. We believe that the best way to get to know Waterloo Primary Academy is to come and visit us. Families are very welcome to arrange a visit, during which a member of our Senior Leadership Team will be happy to show you around and answer any questions you may have.
To arrange a visit, please contact us:
Telephone: 01253 315370
Email: admin@waterloo.blackpool.sch.uk
Thinking of Joining Us?
Starting school is an exciting milestone, and we place great importance on helping children and families feel confident, supported and welcomed from the very beginning. We work closely with families and early years settings to ensure a smooth and positive transition into Reception, taking time to get to know each child as an individual. From school visits and taster sessions to ongoing communication with parents and carers, we aim to make the move to Waterloo Primary Academy a happy and reassuring experience for everyone.
Applying for a Reception Place
If your child was born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2022, you will need to apply for a Reception place for September 2026.
If you live in Blackpool (for example, if you pay council tax to Blackpool or receive housing benefit from Blackpool Council), applications must be made through Blackpool Council’s admissions process.
The application window for Reception places for September 2026 is open between:
1 September 2025 and 15 January 2026
Applications should be made via Blackpool Council using the link below.
Places and Organisation
We have one intake of 90 children into Reception each September. Children start school in the academic year in which they turn five.
Children are admitted on a full-time basis unless there are specific reasons why this may not be appropriate. Including our Nursery, Waterloo Primary Academy has 22 classes, and children are taught in mixed-ability groupings throughout the school.
We can accommodate up to 90 children in each year group from Reception to Year 6. Our Nursery can accommodate up to 26 children per session.
Starting School At Waterloo
All children joining Reception in September are encouraged to attend taster sessions in June and July. These sessions help children become familiar with the school environment, staff and routines, supporting a smooth and positive transition into school. We aim for both children and families to feel comfortable, confident and welcomed as they begin their journey with us.
Oversubscription Criteria
If there are more applications than available places, the following criteria will be applied in line with the admissions policy:
- children who have siblings already attending Waterloo Primary Academy
- children with a medical, special educational or specific need that means attendance at Waterloo Primary Academy is required
- distance from the child’s home to Waterloo Primary Academy
Appeals and Further Information
If we are unable to offer your child a place because a year group is full, parents and carers have the right to appeal. The Blackpool Council School Admissions Team provides guidance on the appeals process in their publication Guide for Parents, available from:
School Admissions Team
Children’s Services
PO Box 4
Blackpool
FY1 1NA
Further information and appeal guidance can also be found on the Blackpool Council school admissions appeals webpage.
Please note that you must apply for a primary school place, even if your child attends our Nursery provision.
Waterloo Primary Academy has adopted the Blackpool Council Admissions Policy.