Schools in Swindon – Parent Guide

Choosing a school in Swindon can feel overwhelming. This guide helps parents understand the options: primary and secondary schools, catchment areas, Ofsted ratings, term dates, and how the application process works. Whether you're moving to Swindon or applying for the next school year, we point you to the right information and our dedicated guides.

School building – schools in Swindon
Schools in Swindon – primary, secondary, and sixth form options. Credit: Unsplash
Primary + secondaryMaintained, academy, free schools
Catchment-basedPostcode usually matters
Apply onlineSwindon Borough Council

Primary schools in Swindon

Swindon has a mix of maintained primary schools, academies, and Church of England schools. Most are non-selective and allocate places using catchment areas, distance, siblings, and other admissions criteria. For an overview of the top-rated primaries, see our guide to best primary schools in Swindon.

Secondary schools in Swindon

Secondary options include academies, comprehensive schools, and sixth form colleges. Some schools are oversubscribed – catchment and distance can be decisive. For a summary of the strongest secondaries, see best secondary schools in Swindon.

School catchment areas

Catchment areas define which postcodes are prioritised for a school. They often change and overlap. Swindon Borough Council publishes catchment maps. For a map-heavy overview, see our school catchment areas in Swindon guide.

School term dates

Swindon schools generally follow Wiltshire term dates (Swindon was part of Wiltshire until 1997 and many schools still share the calendar). For the current year's term dates, see school term dates Swindon.

How to apply

Primary and secondary applications are managed by Swindon Borough Council. Parents apply online for Reception (primary) and Year 7 (secondary). Deadlines are usually in January for the following September. Check the council website for exact dates and supporting evidence.

College and sixth form open days

For post-16 education, New College Swindon, UTC Swindon, and sixth forms run open days. See school and college open days in Swindon.

School admissions

Apply online, check catchment, and find term dates.

Swindon Borough Council – Schools

Information correct as of February 2026. Admissions criteria and catchment areas can change. Always check Swindon Borough Council and individual school websites for the latest information.