Has anyone tried to transfer their child to another school that is full?  Do you get put on a waiting list ?  How easy is it to do?  I don't want current school to know unless I get a place at new school. 

You have to apply via your local council for in-year admissions which are basically admissions outside the normal time of transfer. If the school you want is full, you will get added to the waiting list and they should tell you where you are on the list. Some councils do share information with the current school or ask you to include this on the form though so this maybe something you ask when you ring the council?

My child is number 4 on the waiting list for our first choice school for September. Has anyone any experience of primary school waiting lists and how much they move? It's hard to know whether to give him hope or get him ready for the school where he does have a place (which is our third choice and doesn't seem to be a great school).

It depends on so much. Whether they take 30 or 90 per year group. A bigger year group = more chance of someone leaving or turning down their place.

What the area is like? Do people tend to move around or is it an area where families stay put for years? If people move away for jobs or other schools, you've more chance of a place coming free.

It is also possible some people won't turn up in September because they've got a private school place or decide to Home Educate but just haven't told the council yet.

Good luck - I hope you get in