Parents are being encouraged to apply for primary school places for September 2014.

Parents and carers of children born between September 1, 2009 and August 31, 2010 must apply by January 15, 2014 for primary school places for the September 2014 intake.

All reception aged children are entitled to start school in the September following their fourth birthday.

Applications can be made via the website at essex.gov.uk/admissions. The site enables parents to search for the school information, read Ofsted reports, check admissions criteria and catchment areas and submit applications.

Essex County Council recommend that parents use all their preferences and list their local school as one of their preferences.