Welcome to Reception
Choosing a school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will ever make.
Here at Thames we offer high quality educational provision for children from the age of 2 to 11.
We would be delighted to show you our wonderful learning environment and introduce you to our staff and children.
Our ‘New Reception Starter’ OPEN EVENING is on Tuesday 13th October 2026, from 5-6pm. To book for this event please click here.
Alternatively please call us on (01253) 341466 to arrange a visit to our Academy at a time that is convenient to you, to see what we can offer you and your family.
Primary school places for September 2027
If your child was born between 1 September 2022 and 31 August 2023 then they should start school on the first day of term in September 2027.
The closing date for primary school applications is Friday 15th January 2027.
We highly recommend you apply online. However, you cannot apply online as a late applicant so don’t leave it until the last day in case you encounter computer issues.
Important information:
If you have a child (sibling) already attending your preferred school, you still must complete an application form for the child starting reception in 2026.
Children who attend a nursery that is attached to a school or academy do not automatically move into reception, you must complete an application form for your child.
Attendance at a nursery is not taken into consideration when places in the reception classes are being allocated.
You can find the criteria that is used for allocating places in reception classes in the guide for parents booklet or via the link below. A paper copy can be obtained from the school admissions team.
Non Routine (In-Year) Admissions
If you wish to move your child to Thames Primary Academy mid-year or outside the standard Reception intake, you will need to apply through a non-routine (in-year) admission. We strongly advise speaking with your child’s current school first to discuss the transition, as well as contacting our school office to check current place availability. Because non-routine admissions across Blackpool are coordinated by the local authority, parents must complete the In-Year Application Form directly via Blackpool Council. You can submit your application online through the Blackpool Council website or request a paper copy from the School Admissions Team. Once processed, the Council will contact you regarding space availability; if a place is offered, we will reach out directly to welcome your family, arrange an induction, and ensure a smooth, comfortable transition into the Thames Primary Academy community.
Contact Details
Thames Primary Academy
- Address: Severn Road, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY4 1EE
- Phone: 01253 341466
- Email: admin@thames.atctrust.org.uk
- Website: thames.atctrust.org.uk
Blackpool Council School Admissions Team
- Address: Children’s Services, Bickerstaffe House, 1 Bickerstaffe Square, Blackpool, FY1 3AH
- Phone: 01253 476637 / 01253 476829
- Email: schooladmissions@blackpool.gov.uk
- Website:blackpool.gov.uk/schooladmissions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can we book a school tour before deciding to transfer mid-year?
A: Yes, we warmly encourage prospective families to visit Thames Primary Academy! You can contact our school office directly to arrange a convenient time for a guided tour, ask any specific questions, and view our facilities before submitting your application.
Q: What documents will I need to provide for a mid-year admission?
A: When submitting your application to Blackpool Council, you will need to provide proof of your child’s identity and age (such as a birth certificate or passport) alongside proof of address (e.g., a recent utility bill or Council Tax statement). Once a place is offered, you may also be asked to provide medical details and contact information during our induction process.
Q: What happens if Thames Primary Academy does not currently have space in my child’s year group?
A: If the relevant year group is full, Blackpool Council will notify you and offer the option to place your child on our official waiting list. Places are allocated strictly in accordance with the school’s oversubscription criteria (such as statutory priority, siblings, or distance) rather than on a first-come, first-served basis.The council can also advise you on alternative local schools with available places or support you with the appeals process.
Parents Checklist
1.Contact current and prospective schools:
Recommended first step.
Speak with your child’s current school about the intended move, then contact the Thames Primary Academy school office to discuss your application and inquire about space availability in your child’s year group.
2.Complete the Blackpool Council In-Year Form:#
Online or paper copy.
Submit an In-Year Application Form online via the Blackpool Council website. If you prefer, you can request a paper copy directly from Blackpool Council’s School Admissions Team or our school office.
3.Await processing and offer decision:
Blackpool Council will process your application and check capacity. They will then contact you via email or post to notify you if a place can be offered.
4.Finalise admission and arrange induction:
Once an offer is made, respond within 5 school days to accept. Thames Primary Academy will then reach out directly to set a start date and arrange an induction visit to welcome your child.