PARENTS whose children will be starting secondary or upper school next year have just two weeks left to apply for a place for them.

Parents need to apply by October 31.

Dorset Council says around 58 per cent of parents have completed the application process, with many families still to finish and send in their forms.

The admissions pages on the website give you with all the information you need in order to apply.

See www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/education-and-training/schools-and-learning/apply-for-a-school-place/apply-for-a-school-place.aspx#/

You can also check out our parents' guide for information about the different types of schools and how to apply.

Cllr Andrew Parry, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Early Help said: “If your child is in their final year at primary, middle or junior school, you need to make your application for a secondary school place for them now if you haven’t already done so.

“Making the transfer to secondary or upper school may seem a long way off, but the closing date for applications is fast approaching, so time is of the essence.

“Applications received after 31 October cannot be considered until the late round in April, so please don’t risk disappointment by leaving it too late.”

Parents whose child is due to move to junior or middle school in September 2021, or start school for the first time, have to apply by January 15, 2021.