Nearly 80% of parents and guardians of children who will start school for the first time this autumn 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 children who are due to move into reception in September is next Sunday, 15 January, and parents 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 this autumn should set aside time now to decide which school 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.

“Nearly 80% of parents have already completed their applications, but around a fifth have not yet started. In addition, a further 200 have begun their applications but have not yet submitted them.

“You should ensure you get your applications in by the deadline of 15 January, 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.