Parents and carers of Year 6 children yet to apply must do so by October 31 to secure a secondary school place.

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

Essex County Councillor Ray Gooding, cabinet member for Education and Lifelong Learning, said: “Applying for the right schools for your child is an important decision and I would urge parents to use the tools available on essex.gov.uk/admissions to ensure they make an informed application. Although we are able to provide most families with their preferred school, schools can become oversubscribed so it is very important for parents to use all six preferences.”

It is vital to apply on time; the council recommends that parents use all their preferences and list their local school as one of their preferences. Parents should also carefully consider the admissions criteria of each school for which they wish to apply.