More than 60% of parents whose children will be starting secondary school next year 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 places for students due to start Year 7 in 2020 is the end of this month, and parents are asked to submit theirs as a matter of urgency.

Councillor Dr Michael Hardacre, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “If your child is in their final year at primary or junior school, you should now be making your application for a secondary school place for them.

“While making the transfer to secondary school may seem a long way off, the closing date for applications is Thursday 31 October so time really is of the essence.

“Over 60% of parents have already completed their applications, but many have not yet started. In addition, a further 350 have begun their applications but have not yet submitted them. The process is quick and easy, and ensuring applications are made before the deadline will increase the chances of securing a place at a preferred school.”

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 2 March, 2020.

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 Thursday 31 October, 2019. Applicants can also access their child's school place allocation online on 2 March, 2020 rather than having to wait for a letter in the post.