PARENTS can now apply for secondary school places for their children next September.

Applications must be received between September 1 and October 31.

Essex County Council is warning it is vital applications are received before the closing date.

Ray Gooding, councillor responsible for education, said: “Applying for a secondary school place can be a tough decision and I would encourage all parents to make use of the tools available on the website before submitting an application.

“It is important parents make use of all six preferences available to maximise the opportunity of a place at a preferred school.

“I would also encourage them to consider the admissions criteria for each school they wish to apply for and to read all of the published information to make an informed application.”

Any applications submitted after the deadline will only be considered once all on-time applications have been determined.

For more information, visit essex.gov.uk/admissions