Shropshire Star

Parents warned as deadline looms for primary school places

Parents are being warned to apply for a primary school place for their children immediately to avoid disappointment.

Published
Last updated
The deadline for primary school applications is January 15

Time is running out for parents to apply for a place in September 2018, with the deadline on January 15.

Applications have been open since October, for children born between September 1, 2013, and August 31, 2014, to apply for a primary school place.

With the deadline looming, Carol Sneddon, schools admissions manager for Shropshire Council has urged parents to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out.

She said: "I don't think there has been much of a change in recent years in terms of admissions.

"There may have been a slight increase in the amount of applications, but it all depends on the birth rates which go up and down.

"What I would say is apply straight away, the deadline is not too far away and applications after that date may miss out on a preferred choice."

The local authority is encouraging parents to apply online, and selecting their preferred choice for their child.

Applications considered after that date may be put into a different school that is not their first choice, or would have to go through a long process in an attempt to get a place in their preferred school.

Mrs Sneddon added: "Basically if they are after that date, then they will be considered last on the list, so all the places could be full and they could miss out.

"That then could pose a logistical problem for parents, the next closest school could be quite far away and they would have problems getting their child there.

"That is why it is so important to get the application in early, to stand the best chance of getting a place."

For more information, and to apply online go to shropshire.gov.uk/school-admissions/starting-or-transferring-school/starting-infant-or-primary-school.