Torbay Council is reminding parents with children who are due to start primary school in September 2018 that the deadline for applications for school places is Monday 15 January 2018.

Parents who have a child born between 1 September 2013 and 31 August 2014 can either apply online or complete a paper form. Information about starting primary school can be found in the free booklet TIPS 8, Primary and Secondary Admissions and primary supplement.

The booklet, supplement and application form can be found on the apply for a primary school place page and paper copies are also available from Torbay’s Connections office, primary schools or can be requested by telephoning Torbay Children’s Services on 01803 208908.

Here is some key information:

• Applications must be made on the common application form, even if one or more preferences are for a school in Devon. Any previous application that parents may have made directly to a school will not be considered.
• Even if there is an older child at the preferred school or the child attends a nursery at the school, parents must still apply for a school place using the common application form.
• Applications received after Monday 15 January 2018 will not be considered in the initial round of allocations.
• Parents will receive notification of the place allocated to their child on Monday 16 April if they apply online and have requested to be notified by email, or by letter posted on Monday 16 April if not or if they complete a paper form.

Torbay Council's Executive Lead for Adults and Children, Councillor, Julien Parrott, said: "The application deadline is on Monday 15 January which is not a long time away. I strongly encourage parents with children due to start primary school in September to get their applications in as soon as they can.

“Applying online is the quickest and easiest way to fill out and submit your applications. I recommend parents read through the TIPS booklet, where they can learn more about Torbay’s transparent and fair application system for primary schools admissions.”

Torbay Council admissions officers are available to help parents through the admissions process. Parents can telephone 01803 208908 or email pupil.services@torbay.gov.uk.