How catchment areas work
Catchment areas are geographic zones used to allocate school places when a school is oversubscribed. Children living inside the catchment usually get priority over those outside. Distance from the school (as the crow flies or by walking route) is also commonly used. Each school's admissions policy sets out the exact criteria – catchment boundaries can vary by year and school.
Where to find catchment maps
Swindon Borough Council publishes catchment area information for maintained schools and academies in Swindon. Visit swindon.gov.uk – Schools and learning and look for catchment maps or admissions information. Some academies publish their own catchment data on their websites.
Check your postcode
The council's online school admissions system or catchment checker (when available) lets you enter your postcode to see which schools typically serve your area. You can also contact the council's School Admissions team for advice.
What to remember
- Catchment does not guarantee a place – oversubscribed schools use distance within catchment.
- Boundaries can change – check each admissions round.
- Academies set their own rules – some use different catchment definitions.
- Living outside catchment does not block you – you can still apply; you may be lower down the list.
Information correct as of February 2026. Catchment areas and admissions criteria can change. Always use Swindon Borough Council and individual school websites for the latest information.