Admissions

September 2027 Reception admission deadline: 4:30pm on Friday 15 January

Join us at St. Cuthbert’s, where every child thrives.

Experience the difference of a school that truly cares about every child’s success.

St. Cuthbert’s is a one-form-entry Catholic Primary School for children aged 4–11 in Seaham, County Durham. We are part of the Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust.

We are very proud of our school and the community it serves. We are delighted that you are considering St. Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary School for your child’s primary education.

Our governing body has responsibility for admissions to our school. The local authority undertakes the co-ordination of admission arrangements during the normal admission round for Reception entry in September.

September Admissions

You will find our Admissions Policy below, with full information about our admissions process and criteria.

Please contact the school office if you have any questions about the admission of your child into St. Cuthbert’s. We know the admissions process can feel daunting, and we are more than happy to support you.

What We Offer

A nurturing Catholic school where every child is known and valued Guided by the belief that every child is “Unique, Talented and Loved by God,” we provide a caring environment where children can thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
High expectations and strong outcomes for all children We are committed to helping every child achieve their very best through a broad, balanced and engaging curriculum. Pupils leave Year 6 well-prepared for the next stage of their education.
An inclusive school with excellent SEND support We work closely with families and specialist services to remove barriers to learning, raise aspirations and ensure that pupils with additional needs are fully supported and included in school life.
A rich curriculum that develops the whole child Alongside strong English and mathematics provision, children benefit from a creative curriculum, technology and opportunities to develop independence, collaboration and a lifelong love of learning.
A genuine partnership with families and our wider community We are proud to be an integral part of the local community. We welcome families of all faiths and none and build strong relationships that support children throughout their primary school journey.

Come and Visit Us

We have scheduled open evenings in school. However, if you are unable to attend, please call the school office on 0191 581 3090 and we will be happy to arrange another opportunity for you to visit.

How to Apply

Please find the admissions timetable, application form and information from Durham County Council below.

Step 1: Visit the Durham County Council school admissions page .
Step 2: Scroll down until you find the application button shown below. Select it and follow the instructions.
Durham County Council school admissions application button
Step 3: Continue reading the information until you reach the admissions portal. Log in or register for an account to access the application form.
Durham County Council admissions portal login and registration screen

Need a Hand?

We are here to support you. Contact us to arrange an appointment to visit the school, and we can help you complete the relevant forms.

Call the school office on 0191 581 3090 or email office@stcuthbertsprimary.com .

Next Steps

How will I know if my child has been offered a place?

You will receive an acknowledgement email from Durham County Council by the end of February. You will then receive your child’s school offer on 16 April.

What if I miss the deadline?

Don’t panic. Late applications can still be submitted, and we will help you understand the next steps.

What if my application is not successful?

Sometimes there are places available but more applications than places. In these circumstances, the published oversubscription criteria set out in the Admissions Policy will be applied.

If there are no places available, you can request for your child to be added to the waiting list.

You have the right to appeal to an independent appeal panel if your child is refused a place.
  • The admission authority must allow you at least 20 school days to appeal from the date the decision letter is sent.
  • The admission authority will set a deadline for submitting information and evidence in support of your appeal.
  • Information submitted after the deadline might not be considered and could delay your hearing.
  • The admission authority must give you at least 10 school days’ notice of the hearing.
  • Appeals must usually be heard within 40 school days of the deadline for making an appeal.
  • Decision letters are normally sent within five school days of the hearing, wherever possible.

We will talk you through the appeal process and clearly explain your options.

You can find further information on the Durham County Council school admission appeals page .

What happens after my child is offered a place?

We will contact you to arrange induction days and share information about uniforms, routines and helping your child make a smooth start to school.

Getting Your Child Ready for School

Every chat, story and “I can do it myself” moment at home helps your child grow in confidence, curiosity and independence as they prepare to begin the Early Years Foundation Stage.

These small everyday achievements add up and help give your child a positive, school-ready start.