PARENTS in Dorset have only a few weeks left to apply for their child’s reception school place.

Children born between September 1, 2009 and August 31, 2010 should start school in September 2014, and parents have until 15 January to apply for a reception place.

Dorset County Council handles school admissions for the county and is reminding parents that they must apply now to be in with a chance of securing a place at one of their preferred schools.

Councillor Toni Coombs, Cabinet member for education at Dorset County Council, said: "With Christmas nearly upon us, we want to make sure that parents don't forget to send us their applications. Starting school is a major milestone in a child’s life and I cannot stress enough how important it is that families apply on time, as submitting an application late affects the likelihood of being allocated a place at a preferred school."

All the information, including an online application form, is available here

Alternatively, families can call 01305 221060 for an application pack to be sent out in the post.

If parents apply online they will be able to view the outcome of their application on dorsetforyou.com on April 16, 2014. In all cases, a letter will also be posted first class on this date.