PRIMARY school place applications are now open for parents whose children are starting primary school in September 2020.

Children are entitled to start school after their fourth birthday, so parents and carers of children born between September 1, 2015 and August 31, 2016 need to apply.

Ray Gooding, Essex county councillor responsible for education and skills, said: “Starting school for the first time is an exciting milestone in a child’s life so it’s important to get the application process right. It is vital parents apply on time.”

People can apply for their child’s school place at essex.gov.uk/admissions until January 15.

Applying late could reduce the child’s chance of getting their preferred school place.