Primary school application deadline 2026: What parents need to know and all the top performing schools in Dewsbury, Mirfield, Batley and Spen according to latest Ofsted reports

As the deadline for primary school applications approaches, here is some useful information for parents and carers - as well as the latest Ofsted verdicts for schools in Dewsbury, Mirfield, Batley and Spen.

Parents of children going to primary school in September 2026 have until 11.59pm on Thursday, January 15, to submit their applications.

The process is done online via the Parent Portal on the Kirklees Council website.

Handing tips to parents, the council says: “The process is quick, easy and secure. If it is the first time you’ve used the portal, it doesn’t take long to create an account.

“You can find out which schools are in your priority admission area (also known as catchment area) and about other local schools via the school admissions web page. This also includes an explanation of how places are allocated.

“For Reception applications, parents/carers are strongly advised to apply for three schools: a first, a second and a third preference. This is in case a place is not available at the first preference school. It’s also advised that one of these schools is in your catchment area.”

It is important to note that applications received after the deadline will not be considered until after all the on-time applications have been processed by the council. Applications that arrive late, therefore, can severely reduce the chances of a child getting a place at one of their preferred schools.

As the deadline day draws nearer, we have listed all the top performing schools in Dewsbury, Mirfield, Batley and Spen according to their latest Ofsted reports.