What we do…

The department has three main roles:

Advise and act for the Bishop and trustees on all matters pertaining to schools and colleges.
Advise and support the schools of the diocese in carrying out their mission as Catholic schools.
Provide information and advice to the Catholic community on the provision of Catholic education and access to it.

Bishop Declan has a special message of thanks for all our Head Teachers in this time of Lockdown.

Time to Start School?

If you have a child born between 1 September 2017 and 31 August 2018, then now* is the time to apply for a place at a Catholic primary school in the Diocese. You must complete an application form (either online or on paper) that is available from the school admissions team of your local council, for admission during the 2022-23 school year.

If your child has been baptised, you must also provide a copy of the baptism certificate to your preferred school.

Late applicants have less chance of obtaining a place at their preferred school, so you should ensure you apply by the closing date of 15 January 2022 to try to get a place at your preferred Catholic school.

Visit the school admissions page on the website of your local council (or telephone it) for full details of how to apply.

*Except if you live in Gloucestershire, when you can apply via Gloucestershire County Council from 3 November 2021.