Catchment area
The geographical area from which a school gives priority to applicants in its admissions criteria. US: school attendance zone.
- Used in
- All four UK nations (details may differ)
- Topic
- Policy and law
Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.
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Related terms
- Admissions All four UK nations (details may differ) United States
- The process and rules for allocating school places.
- School zone United States
- The geographic area assigned to a public school; students living there are usually guaranteed a place. Also called an attendance zone.
More terms: Policy and law
Attendance register · Authorised absence · Class size · Compulsory school age · Cut-off date · Elective home education
More terms starting with C · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class
Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.