Summer is too late for some decisions
The summer before Year 6 can feel like the start of the 11+ process, but some registration windows and open events may already be underway or finished.
By this point, families should know which routes are still in play.
Before summer, check
- Test registration deadlines.
- Test dates and clash risks.
- Which schools each result can be used for.
- Open-day dates and booking requirements.
- School admissions policies.
- Daily travel for each serious option.
- The CAF deadline for your local authority.
Example
A family plans to consider two routes but only registers for one before the deadline. The second route may no longer be available, even if the school later looks appealing.
Keep the list practical
The goal before summer is not a perfect CAF order. It is a realistic set of routes and schools that can still be acted on.