Around half of parents and guardians of children who will start school for the first time in September 2023 have now applied for a place for them – and the rest are encouraged to do so as soon as possible.

The deadline for applications for children who are due to start reception next year is 15 January, 2023 and parents and guardians are asked to submit theirs as a matter of urgency.

Councillor Chris Burden, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Work, said: “Parents or guardians of children who are due to start school next autumn should set aside time now to think carefully about the schools they would prefer their child to attend.
 
“This is one of the most important decisions you will make for your child’s future. The application process is straightforward and should only take a few minutes to complete.

“Around half of parents have already completed their applications, but the other half have not yet started. In addition, a further 250 have begun their applications but haven’t formally submitted them.

“You should ensure you get your applications in by the deadline of 15 January, 2023 as applying after this time could have a detrimental effect on the chance of securing a place at one of your preferred schools.”

He added: “It’s important to remember that even if your child is in nursery provision at either primary or infant school, you will still need to apply for a reception class place.”

To apply for a school place, parents should log on to School Admissions and complete the short application process. Parents and guardians will be notified of their child’s allocated school place on 17 April, 2023.

Applying online has a number of benefits. Applications are made through a secure website, and can be viewed and edited online up to the closing date for applications of 15 January, 2023. Applicants can also access their child's school place allocation online on 17 April, 2023 rather than having to wait for the post.