Parents and carers have until January 15 to apply for their child’s primary school place.

Children are entitled to start school in the September after their fourth birthday – so applications must be made by parents or carers of children born during the period September 1, 2020 and August 31, 2021.

Applications submitted after the deadline will only be considered after all the on-time applications. Essex County Council is urging families to give themselves the best chance of being considered for a school they prefer by getting applications in on time.

The council has also encouraged parents and carers to use all four of the preferences available and to check the admissions criteria for each school they wish to apply for. This will ensure they have the best chance of being offered a preferred place.

For further information and to make an application, wisit  www.essex.gov.uk/admissions.