Schools and family lifeOfficial sources

Schools: zones, enrolment and starting school

How home zones and enrolment schemes work at state schools, and what to ask before you choose where to live.

Last checked: 21 Oct 2026
Next review: 21 Apr 2027

Many state schools have an enrolment scheme (a “home zone”). Children living inside the zone are guaranteed a place. Children outside the zone can apply, but only if places are available, and if there are more applicants than places, the school holds a ballot.

What to do next

Before you sign a lease, check which school zones the address is in using the Ministry of Education’s Find a School tool.
Contact the school office to ask about enrolment, documents and start dates.
Whether your child is treated as a domestic or international student depends on your family’s visa situation. Check with the school and official sources; for visa questions, speak with a Licensed Immigration Adviser.

Where to check the current rule

The Ministry of Education’s parents and caregivers pages explain zones and enrolment schemes.