Parents urged to apply for primary school places

Residents are being urged to make sure they apply for a primary school place for any children due to start in September 2015.

Late applications often result in children not getting into their first choice, having to travel further or not being able to go to the same school as brothers or sisters.

Applications for both primary and secondary school open this Monday (1 September), with parents able to register their child online at www.rochdale.gov.uk/schooladmissions.

Cllr Donna Martin, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “We are urging anyone with a child starting school next year to sign up as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. The fastest and most convenient way of doing this is online, where all you need is an email address. If residents do not have email or the internet, they can use the public computers for free at any library, where staff will also be able to help them set up an email account.”

Once an application is made online, all further communication will be via email until an offer of a place is made, when families will receive an offer both electronically and via a letter.

The deadline for secondary school applications is 31 October 2014, while applicants for primary school places have until 15 January 2015. Families can change their choice of school up until the closing date for applications. 

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Notes to the editor

Rochdale Borough Council is working as part of the Children and Young People’s Partnership to support all Rochdale borough children and young people in achieving their full potential.