Information and useful links for parents of children aged 3 – 11 years on choosing the right school, school attendance and when to apply.

If you would like to speak to someone about this in more detail or the information you are looking for is not included here, pop into your local Family Hub who will help you find the information you need.

Apply for a primary, infant or junior school place

Information for parents about the South Tyneside admissions process can be found here

For dates of when to apply for a school place Apply for a primary, infant or junior school place – South Tyneside Council

For information about school performance Compare the performance of schools and colleges in England

If you need to speak to someone about school admissions, please contact the School Admissions team on 0191 424 7767 / 7706 / 7705 or school.admissions@southtyneside.gov.uk.

School attendance

When it comes to attending school, you should remember:

• Low attendance means a lower chance of your child getting into further education and employment
• Good attendance means higher grades and better chances in life
• Missing the odd day can become a habit
• Every lesson in school matters and if your child has time off they may find it difficult to catch up
• Absences for medical appointments should be requested as far in advance as possible and routine appointments (for example dental check ups) should be made during school holidays or after school hours wherever possible
• School is a great place for your child to have fun and make new friends and improve confidence
• There is a strong link between non-attendance and street crime and / or substance abuse
• Attending school improves your child’s health. It encourages good social skills, helps them create friendships and will also help increase physical health through regular exercise
• Lateness equals lost learning. Five minutes every day adds up to over three days lost each year

If you would like to talk to someone about your child’s attendance, or any other related issues, speak to the attendance officer at your school or contact the Council’s Attendance Monitoring Team on 0191 424 7400.

More information about national regulation and legislation around school attendance can be found at Pupil wellbeing, behaviour and attendance

School meals

Details about South Tyneside school catering arrangements, prices and what your child will be fed in school can be found here

Information about free schools meals, who is eligible and hoe to apply can be found here