Actions for settings if parents decide to defer their child's school place

The information on this page is for childcare providers.

If you are a parent seeking information about deferring your child's admission until later in the year, visit Starting school | Essex County Council.

What should early settings do

Many children would have received the offer of their child's school place to start reception in September.

Some parents may be considering deferring their child's school place until they reach statutory school age, the term after the child's 5th birthday.

To support this decision, please discuss with the parents the 'school deferral points for consideration' document.

If a parent decides they would like their child to remain in an early years provision and not to start reception in September, please complete a deferral form for each child.

All schools and settings are required to submit a Deferral Form

The parent agreement form should not be completed for any children that should be starting reception in September, before submitting a deferral form.

When a deferral form is received and reviewed, we will confirm the funding entitlement for term/terms.

Information relating to delayed and deferred entry can be found in the Schools Admission Brochure for this year, so please ensure parents are aware of the information.