Parents of Year Six pupils due to start secondary school in September 2019 are reminded that they only have until October 31 to apply for their child’s secondary school place.

With just over two weeks to go till applications close, parents are encouraged to use the half term break to get their applications in.

Applications can be made at www.essex.gov.uk/admissions with the website also holding information on different schools and their admissions criteria.

The October 31 deadline for applications is a national deadline and applications made after this are considered once all on-time applications have been determined.

Applying late could reduce the chance of a child being offered a place at their preferred school.