APPLICATIONS are open for secondary school places in 2022 and Dorset Council is urging parents and carers to get the submission for their child in as soon as possible.

The authority said that parents need to apply by October 31 for the best chance of getting a place at their preferred school for their child.

“Parents or carers should get their child’s application in as soon as possible to avoid missing out on their preferred choice of secondary or upper school,” said Councillor Andrew Parry, Dorset Council portfolio holder for children, education and early help.

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“Applications received after the 31 October deadline will be marked as late and will not be considered until March, please don’t risk disappointment by leaving it too late.”

Applications can be made via the Dorset Council website, where further information about selecting the right school and a parents guide to the different types of academic institutions can be found.

Students that entered secondary school this year across the county were more likely to get their first choice than many other parts of the country.

Cllr Parry added: “This academic year more than 97 per cent of pupils secured their first secondary school preference in Dorset, higher than many other parts of the country.

“However, if an application is not made on time, families may find it harder to get their child into a school of choice.”

Dorset Council states if your child is due to start secondary or upper school in September of next year parents or carers should apply now to avoid disappointment.

Children born between September 1, 2017, and August 31, 2018, that are due to start school for the first time in 2022 will have to submit their applications by January 15 next year.

Those parents or carers of youngsters due to move up to junior or middle school next September will also have to apply by the January 15 2022 deadline.

Parents or carers of children who are unable to apply online can download a word document from the admissions page.

Or alternatively contact the school admissions team for Dorset on 03105 221060.