Information for families in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

Family Information Directory

The Family Information Directory provides details on childcare, local activities and a range of services for you and your family.  Please make sure you check any activity or event is still running before you attend.  

The Family Information Service is here to help you and your family find childcare, local services and activities. Find out how we can help you.     

📚 Moving up to secondary school in September 2027?
Applications for a secondary school place can be made from 1 September 2026 until 31 October 2026. Apply online: bcpcouncil.gov.uk/schooladmissions

🚍 Home to school travel support consultation
We're consulting on our Home to School Travel Policy from 8 September 2026. You can review the draft policy documents ahead of the consultation 

Proposed Home to School Transport Policy Consultation

BCP Council will be consulting on proposed changes to its Home to School Transport Policy from 8 September to 7 October 2026. Parents and carers are encouraged to review the proposed policy before choosing school preferences, as the changes may affect how transport assistance is provided in some circumstances.

View the proposed policy. Have Your Say from 8 September www.haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/schooltravel

SEND reform – what families in BCP need to know

A message for parents and carers, children and young people

SEND reform has been discussed a lot in the media and online, and we understand this can feel uncertain. We want to be clear about what it means locally in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, and what it does and does not mean for your child. At its heart, SEND reform is about something simple but important: helping children and young people feel they belong, are listened to, and can thrive. Find out more here.

Welcome to our new virtual assistant

Hi, I'm Nia, your go-to friendly helper designed to make life easier for you and your  family. Whether you need information, local services, activities or support, I am here 24/7.

Start chatting today by selecting my logo on every page and see how I can help you.

The Children and Young People's Partnership Plan

We are committed to supporting our children and young people to help them develop, grow and achieve their potential. We have listened, and with their help, have produced our five year plan for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.