Admission Details

Starting secondary school is an exciting milestone for every family and we're delighted you're considering Harper Green School. On this page, you'll find everything you need to know about applying for a Year 7 place, including key admission dates, how to apply and where to find further guidance throughout the application process.

Applying for a Year 7 Place (September 2027)

If your child was born between 1 September 2015 and 31 August 2016 (currently in Year 6 during the 2026/27 academic year), they will transfer to secondary school in September 2027.

Applications for Year 7 places are coordinated by Bolton Council. To apply for a place at Harper Green School, please make sure you list us as your first preference on your school application. Naming Harper Green School as your first-choice school gives your child the best opportunity to secure a place with us.

Families will receive their school offer directly from their Local Authority on National Offer Day. If your child is offered a place at Harper Green School, we'll also be in touch with information about transition events, key dates and everything you need to know before your child joins us in September 2027.

Alternatively, if you need free, independent and impartial support to help you with the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Team on 01204 332 137.

Apply Now 

Children with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)

If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), the admissions process is different.

Your child's primary school and SEND caseworker will discuss secondary school options with you during the annual review process. You'll be asked to express your preferred school and Bolton Council will work with you to determine the most appropriate placement for your child.

For further information, please visit the Bolton Council Admissions website or speak to your SEND caseworker.

Visit www.bolton.gov.uk/admissions for more information.

Admissions Timeline

If you live outside Bolton, your Local Authority may follow a slightly different timetable.

In-Year Admissions

If your child is already attending secondary school and you wish to apply for a place at Harper Green School, you'll need to complete an In-Year Transfer Application through Bolton Council.

For more information about transferring schools during the academic year, please visit www.bolton.gov.uk/admissions for more information. 

Admission Criteria

Harper Green School follows the admissions arrangements determined by Bolton Council.

If the school receives more applications than there are places available, places are allocated using the published oversubscription criteria.

Priority is given to:

• Children with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) naming Harper Green School.
• Looked after and previously looked after children.
• Children who are, or have recently been, subject to a Child Protection Plan.
• Children with a sibling attending Harper Green School at the time of admission.
• Children with exceptional medical or social needs supported by professional evidence.
• Children who live closest to the school, measured in a straight line from the home address to the school's main entrance.

Tie Breaker

Where two or more applicants have equal priority under the admissions criteria, places will be allocated in accordance with Bolton Council's published admissions arrangements. This may include a random allocation process where applicants cannot otherwise be separated.

For full details of the admissions policy and oversubscription criteria, please refer to the latest Bolton Council Secondary School Admissions Booklet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for a Year 7 place?

Applications are made through your home Local Authority. If you live in Bolton, you can apply online through the Bolton Council admissions portal and include Harper Green School as one of your preferred schools.

Can I apply if I live outside Bolton?

Yes. If you live outside Bolton and would like your child to attend Harper Green School, you should apply through your own Local Authority and include Harper Green School as one of your preferred schools.

Can I apply for a school outside my local authority?

Yes. You can apply for schools in neighbouring local authority areas. Simply include your preferred schools on your application through your home Local Authority.

When can I apply?

Applications usually open during the autumn term. The deadline for applications for September 2027 entry is 31 October 2026.

Can I save my application and finish it later?

Yes. You can save your online application and return to it at any time before the application deadline.

Can I change my application after I've submitted it?

Yes. You can make changes up until the closing date. If you amend your application, remember to submit it again so your changes are saved.

What information will I need to apply?

To complete your application online, you'll need:

• An email address
• Your child's details
• Details of your preferred schools

Is my information secure?

Yes. Bolton Council's online admissions system uses secure processes to protect your personal information.

When will I find out which school my child has been offered?

Families will receive their school offer by email from their Local Authority on National Offer Day – Monday, 1 March 2027.

What happens if my child is offered a place at Harper Green School?

We'll be in touch with everything you need to know before your child starts Year 7, including transition events, key dates, uniform information and details about joining our school community.

If you have any questions about the admissions process, please visit the Bolton Council Admissions website or contact Bolton Council's Admissions Team for advice and support.