The deadline for upper or secondary school applications for a 2023 start is coming up, and parents or carers will need to apply by Monday 31 October for their best chance of securing their first choice place for their child.

This applies to all children moving from primary to secondary school, or middle to upper school at the start of the next academic year.

Both Dorset Council and BCP Council websites have all the information you will need to apply.

Cllr Andrew Parry, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Children, Education and Early Help said: “Parents or carers should get their child’s application in as soon as possible to give themselves the best chance of being offered a place at one of their preferred schools. Applications received after the 31 October deadline will be marked as late and will not be considered until March. Please don’t risk disappointment by leaving it too late.

“This academic year, more than 97 per cent of pupils secured their first secondary school preference in Dorset, higher than many other parts of the country. However, if an application is not made on time, families may find it harder to get their child into their preferred school.”

Residents of the Dorset Council area who are not able to apply online can download a word document from the admissions pages or contact the School Admissions Team on 01305 221060, or email: admissions@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

To find out more or apply, visit: Dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/school-admissions.

BCP Council residents will need to apply through BCP Council and will find everything they need at www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/Schools-and-learning/School-admissions/