Apply Now For Primary & Secondary School Places
| Published: 5th October 2008 20:25 |
If your child is set to start primary school or move on to secondary school next year you need to apply for their place this month and the easiest way is to apply online.
The deadlines for applications are October 16 for primary school places and October 24 for secondary school places.
You can find out about the online application process from Keith Emsall, Executive Member for Education and Culture, in a webcast available now at Hertfordshire County Council's website.
Keith Emsall said: "You can apply online or on paper but many parents find that applying online is quick, easy and secure. Nearly 90 percent of the applications we received for secondary and primary school places in 2007 came through our website. The online form takes less than ten minutes to complete and most parents and carers told us they found it really convenient and easy to use."
Before applying, parents and carers should have identified their three preferred schools in rank order. Visits to the schools to see if they would suit your child are highly recommended. Because many schools receive more applications than they have places, there are admission rules to decide which children get places at which schools. It is also recommended that parents and carers read about the admissions and home to school transport policies before making their decision.
Councillor Emsall added:" Starting school or moving on to secondary school are important steps for children. This year, the county council's admissions team will handle more than 45,000 applications for school places, so it's important you get your application in before the deadline. Remember, if your application is late, then you're much less likely to get a place at the school of your choice, even if you live very close by or have another child already at the school."
Last year 93 per cent of children were given a place at one of their three ranked secondary schools and 95 per cent were offered places at one of their three ranked primary schools.
Parent and carers who need extra support with their child's school can contact Irene Holland (01462 634488; irene.holland@hertscc.gov.uk) at the Parents Partnership Service for advice.
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