Catchment is often described like a border on a map. In reality, it is usually a moving cut-off driven by who applies in a given year.
This guide helps you avoid the classic mistakes: assuming a move guarantees entry, misunderstanding proof-of-address requirements, and building a preference list with no resilient backup.
Key takeaways
- Catchment is usually a moving cut-off, not a fixed area.
- Proof-of-address rules can make or break an application.
- A strong strategy includes visited backups you would accept.
In this guide
Catchment is a cut-off, not a guarantee
Most oversubscribed schools allocate by admissions priority then distance. The distance cut-off changes each year based on demand.
The practical takeaway: you can reduce risk but rarely eliminate it. Plan around probabilities, not certainty.
Proof of address is where many applications fail
Admissions teams apply evidence rules strictly. Short lets, unclear custody arrangements, or missing documents can invalidate an application or change your priority.
Before you move or rent, confirm exactly what counts as an address for that school and local authority.
Build a preference list that protects your outcome
A strong preference list balances aspiration and realism. The goal is not to "win" one school at all costs; the goal is to secure a good offer.
Include at least one option that is realistically achievable and still a good fit. Visit backups and compare them properly.
If you miss out: waiting lists, appeals, and plan B
If you do not get your first choice, act quickly. Join waiting lists immediately and understand the appeals process.
Your best leverage is preparation: clear notes, evidence, and a calm plan for transport and interim arrangements if needed.
A simple plan you can follow
Use this as a lightweight workflow as you shortlist, visit, and decide.
- Read admissions policies and note the tie-break order.
- Estimate feasibility based on distance rules and demand patterns (where available).
- Verify proof-of-address requirements before any move.
- Build a balanced preference list with strong backups.
- Prepare a fast response plan for offer day outcomes.
Practical templates
Use these lists as prompts on open days and when comparing schools side-by-side.
- Tie-break rules understood (distance, siblings, feeder, faith, selection).
- Proof-of-address rules checked (tenancy, council tax, timing).
- Backup schools shortlisted and visited.
- Evidence documents ready before the deadline.
- Waiting list and appeal steps understood.
- What is the admissions priority order and how is it applied?
- How does sibling priority affect typical distance cut-offs?
- What counts as the child home address in your policy?
- Do you accept rented addresses and what tenancy length is required?
- How do waiting lists work and how often are they updated?
- Assuming a move guarantees a place without checking cut-offs and tie-breakers.
- Using an address that does not meet evidence requirements.
- Ranking only oversubscribed schools with no realistic backup.
- Waiting too long to join waiting lists or prepare an appeal.
Use this with Schoolboard
Turn the guide into a shortlist you can compare on the map and school pages.
- Use the map to understand which schools are plausible within your constraints.
- Compare backups early so plan B is still a strong option.
- Use filters to find realistic alternatives if your top choice is oversubscribed.