(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
Parents across County Durham are being urged to apply for secondary school places before the end of the month to avoid missing out on their preferred school.
The deadline is Saturday, October 31, for children starting secondary school in September 2027.
Councillor Cathy Hunt, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: "We understand that, for parents, choosing which school to send your child to is a big decision.
"We would encourage parents to make sure they apply by the deadline as a late application does reduce their chance of getting into a preferred school."
Children eligible to start secondary school in September 2027 will have birthdays between September 1, 2015 and August 31, 2016.
Applications can be made online through Durham County Council or by post.
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Parents applying by post should use a signed-for or special-delivery service.
Parents can request a paper form by calling 03000 265 896 or writing to Durham County Council’s School Places and Admissions Team at PO Box 274, Stanley, DH8 1HG.
Parents will learn their child’s school place on March 1, 2027.
Online applicants will receive an email; those who apply by post will get a letter.