Applying for a year 10 school place
If you have a child born between 1 September 2010 and 31 August 2011, you can apply for a UTC/studio school for your child to start year 10 in September 2025.
In this section
When to apply for a year 10 place
When your child is a pupil in year 9, you have the right to apply for their admission to a UTC or studio school at the beginning of year 10.
These alternative school provisions allow your child to study for their core subject GCSEs, but also gain qualifications in areas not normally taught in mainstream school. This does not mean that you have to move your child to another school. For the majority of children, the school they are already attending will remain the most appropriate place for them to continue their education.
More information about year 10 admissions can be found in our Schools admissions 2025 brochure (available soon).
Studio schools and UTCs
University technical colleges are set up by universities and businesses and specialise in 1 or 2 technical subjects. In years 10 and 11, they offer a similar GCSE curriculum to a typical secondary school, including English and Maths, as well as their specialist subject.
Studio schools are similar to UTCs in that they have employer involvement in the curriculum and focus on developing skills needed for employment, involving personal coaching and work experience. They have a similar curriculum to a typical secondary school.
There are 4 studio schools and UTCs in Hillingdon:
View details of Year 10 providers in Hillingdon and the surrounding local area (PDF) [48KB]
How to apply
The closing date for on-time applications was Thursday 31 October.
To apply to De Salis Studio College or Parkside Studio College, complete a common application form via the e-admissions website.
Make a year 10 school application (opens new window)
If you are having difficulties making an application online, read our How to create and complete an online application guide (PDF) [387KB].
To apply to UTC Heathrow or Global Academy, you will need to apply through the relevant school directly via the schools online application form.
Please note: UTC Heathrow or Global Academy cannot be applied to via the eAdmissions website.
Parental responsibility and disputes
Our School Placement and Admissions team has seen a significant increase in the numbers of disputes between parents, relating to where their children should go to school. We understand that, when trying to come to a mutual agreement on child arrangements, parental disputes can be extremely upsetting for all involved (including the children).
Protocol and guidance regarding parental responsibility (PDF) [179KB] has been published to help parents understand the council's protocol for dealing with situations where parents disagree. This is general guidance intended to help parents understand their rights and responsibilities in line with the law.
Can't find the information you're looking for?
If you're unable to find the information you are looking for, please complete our online schools query form.