Once you have decided on the right school for your child, you will have to begin what could be quite a long and drawn-out application process.  It's a good idea to be aware of the degree of competitiveness within each pool of applicants, as this will prepare you and your child for the challenges that could lay ahead.  Unfortunately there seems to be a shortage of reputable schools in some areas of the UK, which puts undue pressure on the good schools that are in the areas and causes many applicants each year to be denied entry.  If you are in one of these competitive districts, your child may be put on a waiting-list or be submitted to several interviews and tests.

The best thing you can do when you are applying for a position at a new school or college is to organize a meeting with the admissions coordinator for the school in question.  They can advise you on the degree and complexity of the application process, the approximate number of candidates applying for the positions available, and whether the school offers scholarships or reduced fees for gifted students or families suffering a hardship.  If the school has year-level coordinators, you may also be able to meet with them.  This will allow you to ask more detailed questions about the curriculum and the school's philosophy and attitude.  Open Days are also a good opportunity to get a feel for the school.