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September 2026 Reception Admission deadline is 4:30pm on Thursday 15th January
Join us at St. Cuthbert’s where every child thrives!
Why choose us? Experience the difference of a school that truly cares about every child’s success.
St. Cuthbert’s is a one-form-entry Catholic Primary School (4–11 years) in Seaham, County Durham. We are part of the Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust. We are very proud of our school and the community it serves. We are delighted that you are considering St. Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary School for your child’s primary education.
Our governing body has responsibility for admissions to our school. The local authority undertakes the co-ordination of admission arrangements during the normal admission round for Reception entry in September.
September Admissions
You will find our Admission Policy below with full information about our admission process and criteria.
Feel free to contact the school office if you have any queries about the admission of your child into St. Cuthbert’s. We know the admissions process can be daunting and are more than happy to support you.
What we offer
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A nurturing Catholic school where every child is known and valued as an individual. Guided by the belief that each child is "Unique, Talented and Loved by God," we create a caring environment where children thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
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High expectations and strong outcomes for all children. We are committed to helping every child achieve their very best through a broad, balanced and engaging curriculum, with pupils leaving Year 6 well-prepared for the next stage of their education.
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An inclusive school with excellent SEND support. We work closely with families and specialist services to remove barriers to learning, raise aspirations and ensure that pupils with additional needs are fully supported and included in all aspects of school life.
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A rich curriculum that develops the whole child. Alongside strong English and mathematics provision, children benefit from a creative curriculum, use of technology and opportunities to develop independence, collaboration and a love of learning in the classroom and at play.
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A genuine partnership with families and our wider community. We are proud to be an integral part of the local community, welcoming families of all faiths and none, and building strong relationships that support children throughout their primary school journey.
Come and Visit Us
We have scheduled open evenings in school; however, if you are unable to attend, please call the school office on 0191 581 3090 and we will be happy to arrange an alternative opportunity for you to visit.
How to Apply
Please find the 2025 Admissions Timetable, link to the application form and information from County Durham Local Authority below.
Step 1 — click here: County Durham Council Admissions
Step 2: Scroll down until you find the button shown below, click it and follow the instructions.
Step 3: Scroll down until you see the information below. Now simply Log in or Register for an account to gain access to the form.
Need a hand?
We offer support — get in touch to book an appointment to pop into school. We can help with all forms. Call the school office on 0191 581 3090 or email office@stcuthbertsprimary.com.
Next Steps
How will I know if my child has been offered a place?
You will receive an acknowledgement email from County Durham Council by the end of February. You will then receive your child’s school offer by 16 April.
What if I miss the deadline?
Don’t panic — late applications can still be submitted, and we’ll help you with next steps.
What if my application isn’t successful?
Sometimes there there are places available but more applications than places, In these instances the published oversubscription criteria, as set out in the admissions policy, will then be applied. If there are no places available, a request can be made that the child is added to the waiting list.
You have the right of appeal to an independent appeal panel if refused a place, the key points are listed below:
- The admission authority for the school must allow you at least 20 school days to appeal from when they send the decision letter.
- The admission authority will set a deadline for submitting information and evidence to support your appeal. If you submit anything after the deadline, it might not be considered and may result in delays to your hearing.
- The admission authority must give you at least 10 school days’ notice of the hearing.
- Appeals must be heard within 40 school days of the deadline for making an appeal.
- decision letters are sent within 5 school days of the hearing, wherever possible.
We’ll talk you through the appeal process and explain your options clearly. You can find out about South Tyneside's appeals process here School Admission Appeals - County Durham Council
What happens after my child is offered a place?
How wonderful! We’ll contact you to arrange induction days and share details about uniforms, routines and starting school smoothly.