Thinking of joining us?

We welcome visits from parents and children who are considering applying for a place here, as this is a great opportunity for you to see what we have to offer. (Visits are not a compulsory part of the admissions process and will not affect decisions on whether a place can be offered at our school.)

If you would like to arrange a tour, please email us on office@portesham.dorset.sch.uk or alternatively please call 01305 871283.

How to apply for a school place in Dorset

More information about admissions to schools in Dorset can be found on Dorset County Council website by clicking on the following links: 

• General information about school admissions in Dorset
• Starting school for the first time: applying for a reception place at a Dorset school
• Moving school partway through the year: applying for a place at a Dorset school during the school year
• How to appeal a school place refusal: find out what to do if your choice of school place has been refused.

Our Admissions policies

The Admissions policies for pupils' admissions during the academic years 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25 can be found below.

The Admissions Appeals Timetable 2023 

School Admission Appeals will be processed in line with the requirements set out in the School Admissions Appeals Code. Below is a timetable that sets out key dates for the appeals process, focussing on September 2023 entry. Key information has also been provided that sets out how in-year appeals will be dealt with.

Please ensure that you read this information carefully before lodging your appeal.

• Offer letters posted to parents and carers on National Offer Day by Local Authority: 17 April 2023
• Deadline for acceptance of the offer by parents and carers: 2 May 2023
• Deadline for lodging an on-time admission appeal: 19 May 2023
• Appealing hearing dates: between 20 June and 19 July 2023