Admissions

Joining Us

Thank you for your interest in joining Peacehaven Community School.

Joining our school community is an important decision, and we're committed to making it a positive experience for you and your child. Our admissions process is simple and clear, so you can feel confident in your choice to join our exceptional school.

All applications to Peacehaven Community School, whether the transition from primary to secondary or moving schools during the year (in-year admission), must be made via the Local Authority (East Sussex County Council). 

You can do this by completing an application form via this link:
ESCC Apply for a Secondary School

Alternatively, a paper application can be requested from the Local Authority by either calling 0300 3309472 or emailing admissions@eastsussex.gov.uk


Admissions Policy

Admissions policy - Determination 2027-28
In Year Admissions Policy - 2026-2027

Key Dates

11 September 2026: Open date for applications
31 October 2026: Closing date for applications
1 March 2027: Decisions sent by ESCC via email

Frequently asked questions

When do I apply?
Applications open on 11th September 2026, and you must submit your application by 31 October 2026.  Missing this deadline significantly reduces your chances of getting a preferred school.

How do I apply?
Apply online through the East Sussex County Council Website.  You will need to complete an application via this link: ESCC Apply for a Secondary School.

You can name up to 3 different schools. Listing more than one:

  • Won't affect your first preference.

  • Will increase your chances of an offer at a school you prefer.

What if I miss the deadline?
If you apply after the closing date, the request will be dealt with after all on-time preferences have been processed.  This may affect your chances of securing a preferred school.

If you move into the area after the closing date you should apply for a place as soon as possible.  

I need to make a change to my application
If you wish to make changes to your application before the closing date, please email these to admissions@eastsussex.gov.uk and include your child's name and date of birth.

When will I find out which school my child has been allocated to?
ESCC will contact you on 1 March 2027 to let you know which school your child has been allocated to.

What if I don’t get my preferred school?
You can appeal the decision and your child can be placed on a waiting list at your preferred school.


SEND

If your child has special educational needs and has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), talk to your SEN Caseworker about which school you would like your child to attend and they will explain the next steps.

These are the links to both East Sussex and Brighton and Hove.

Assessment and Planning at East Sussex County Council:
https://1space.eastsussex.gov.uk/Services/4843

Brighton and Hove County Council:
https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/directories/special-educational-needs-and-disability-send-support/sen-team-0


Waiting Lists

Peacehaven Community School is responsible for operating a waiting list for each year group where there are more applicants than places available. The waiting list is ordered using our published oversubscription criteria. Details of these can be found in our Admissions Policy.

You can apply to go on the waiting list by contacting us directly either by phone, letter or email, pcs-admissions@swale.at

If a place becomes available and you are top of the waiting list we will contact you inviting your child to take up the place.

Please note that our waiting lists are automatically cleared after Christmas, Easter and the Summer term. You will need to contact the school in order to stay on the list.