More than 80% of parents and carers of children who will start school for the first time this September have now applied for a reception class place for them – and the rest are encouraged to do so as soon as possible.

The deadline for applications for pupils due to start reception this autumn is next Wednesday (15 January), 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: “Parents or carers of children who are due to start school in the autumn should set aside time now to think carefully about 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.

“You should ensure you get your reception class application in by the deadline of Wednesday 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 junior school, you will still need to apply for a reception class place.”

More than four fifths of parents have already completed their applications, but many have not yet started. In addition, a further 150 have begun their applications but have not yet submitted them.

To apply for a reception class 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 16 April.

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. Applicants can also find out about their child's school place allocation online when it is announced on 16 April, rather than having to wait for the post.

Help and advice is available from the Admissions and Appeals Team on 01902 551122 or by emailing school.admissions@wolverhampton.gov.uk

Latest figures show that 86% of schools in Wolverhampton are now rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, including 94% of primary schools. For more information about education in the city, please visit Education and Schools.