Time to apply for primary school places

Parents are urged to apply for primary school places for their children as soon as possible.

And education bosses in Leeds are urging them to get their applications in early for their preferred schools.

Those with children born between September 1, 2011 and August 31, 2012 must fill in the application form before January 15, 2016.

They will need to list five schools including the family’s nearest priority school.

Last year the Leeds City Council admissions team received nearly 10,000 requests.

Previous years have shown those who apply late have a 30 per cent less chance of getting one of their preferred choices.

Last year, 159 late applicants were unable to be given any of their preferences because the places had been filled.

Councillor Lucinda Yeadon, executive board member responsible for children and families, said: “Leeds has become such an attractive proposition to families and businesses that we are now faced with an unprecedented population increase and this year we are expecting a peak in the number of applications for children starting reception in 2016, due to a peak in the birth rate for this cohort of pupils.

“These facts make it even more important for parents to submit their applications as early as possible.

“Choosing a school for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make, and here in Leeds we are lucky we have so many fantastic schools.

“We have made the application process as simple as possible but it is so important that parents read the requirements carefully, list five preferred schools and apply on time.

“In the last school year, many applications for primary school places were made after the offer date and before the start of term. It’s far more difficult to allocate places in these circumstances and families who do this risk not being able to send their child to a preferred school.”

The application form and more information about the application process can be found online at www.leeds.gov.uk/admissions.

Parents will hear by email or letter what their offer is on April 18 next year. For help with applications, call the admissions team on 0113 2224414.