Parents urged to apply on time for primary places or risk missing out

Families with children who are due to start primary school in September 2017 are being reminded they have until 15 January to apply for their preferred schools.

Previous years have shown that those who apply after the deadline have a 30% less chance of getting a preferred school place, which can be upsetting for both parents and children.

To avoid this, Leeds City Council is urging families to submit their preferences by Sunday 15 January.

The quickest and easiest way to apply is online at www.leeds.gov.uk/admissions. People who apply online will receive a confirmation email that their preferences have been received and will receive their offer by email on 16 April 2017.

Councillor Lisa Mulherin, executive member responsible for children and families, said:

“In the last school year, over 480 applications for primary school places were made after the deadline. It’s far more difficult to allocate places in these circumstances and families who do this risk not being able to send their child to their preferred school.

“Unfortunately every year there are disappointed parents and children who we are unable to offer a place to at one of their preferred schools because they apply after the deadline. We want to give everyone a fair opportunity by encouraging everyone to apply on time.

“It’s essential that preferences are made by the deadline on 15 January and that up to five schools are listed - including your nearest school - to ensure every child and young person has the best chance of attending a preferred school.”

Last year 480 applications for reception places were made after the deadline. Of those who applied late 76 were unable to be allocated any of their preferences because all of the places had already been filled. Only 73% of late applicants received one of their preferences compared to 97% of those who applied on time.

For more information about admissions visit www.leeds.gov.uk/admissions or call the admissions team on 0113 2224414.