Parents of children starting primary school this year have just one week left to apply for their child’s reception place. The deadline is Tuesday 15 January.

The deadline is for children who are starting school for the first time, transferring from First to Middle school or transferring from Infant to Junior school in September 2019.

There are still 910 applications outstanding - this includes 642 children who are due to start school for the first time in September (which is any child born between 1 September 2014 and 31 August 2015).

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.

Cllr Andrew Parry, Cabinet member for Education, Learning and Skills, said:

“We are encouraging parents of children starting school in September to send us their applications by the deadline. Starting school is a major milestone in a child’s life and applying late may affect your chances of getting a place at your preferred school.”

You can find all the information and apply online. You can also call 01305 221060 for an application pack to be sent out in the post.