PARENTS and carers have until the end of October to give them the best chance of securing their preferred school.

All children moving from primary to secondary school, or middle to upper school, in September 2023, will need to apply for their preferred school.

And Dorset Council said to be in with the best chance of securing their chosen school, parents should apply as soon as possible.

Cllr Byron Quayle, portfolio holder for children, education and early help, said: “Parents or carers should complete their child’s application as soon as possible to give themselves the best chance of being offered a place at one of their preferred schools. Please don’t risk disappointment by leaving it too late.

“If an application is not made on time, families may find it harder to get their child into their preferred school.

“I’d like to wish you all the best for this next exciting, albeit nerve-wracking, chapter.”

School application deadlines in the Dorset Council area

If your child is due to start secondary or upper school in September 2024, you should apply now.

Parents/carers must apply by October 31.

If you’re not able to apply online, you can download a Word document from the admissions pages, or contact the School Admissions Team on 01305 221060, or email admissions@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

To find out more or apply online now, visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/school-admissions.