AS schools across Essex start their autumn term parents of Y6 pupils are being reminded that it will soon be time to apply for their child’s September 2019 secondary school place.

From 12 September 2018 parents and carers can apply online for their child’s Year 7 secondary school place. Applications must be made by the national closing date of 31 October 2018.

Applications can be made at www.essex.gov.uk/admissions with the website also holding information on different schools and their admissions criteria.

Cllr Ray Gooding, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, said: “The start of secondary school is another exciting milestone in a child’s academic life and therefore it is crucially important that parents get their application submitted on time.

“I would encourage parents to visit their preferred schools, carefully consider each school’s admissions criteria and use all six preferences on the admissions application.”

The 31 October deadline for applications is a national deadline and applications made after this are considered once all on-time applications have been determined. Applying late could reduce the chance of a child being offered a place at their preferred school.