Applying to independent schools and preschools
Waiting lists, early registration and deposits at independent schools, preschools and daycares.
Independent schools, preschools and daycares do not use the WCED application window. Each one runs its own admissions.
Start early
Some independent schools and popular preschools open waiting lists years ahead, sometimes soon after a child is born. If there is a school you are keen on, contact it early to ask:
- when it takes applications for your child's starting year
- whether there is a waiting list, and how places are offered from it
- whether there is an application fee or a deposit, and whether the deposit is refunded
- whether children are assessed or interviewed
Intake dates on SchoolPath
When a school publishes its intake dates, SchoolPath adds them to your plan's timeline. If a school has not published dates, your plan says so and suggests you contact the school about its waiting list.
Moving on from preschool
Many preschools and daycares have close links with particular primary schools. Some independent schools run from Grade 000 or earlier right through to Grade 12. See catchment areas, feeder schools and routes for how SchoolPath shows these links.