PARENTS of children in Hartlepool due to move up to secondary school next September are reminded that they have until the end of this month to apply for places.

The deadline for all applications to be received – either online or in paper form - is October 31.

Hartlepool Council’s school admissions team is now calling on families yet to apply to take advantage of its online service at hartlepool.gov.uk/schooladmissions

School admissions officer Julie Picken said: “It is quick and easy, you can apply 24 hours a day, seven days a week, there’s no risk that your paper applications will be lost in the post and the process is safe and secure. You will also get a decision more quickly than if you submit a paper application form.

“It’s also possible to make changes to your application right up until the closing date and each time you make a change you will receive an e-mail confirming the status of your application.

“However, if you are unable to apply online or would prefer to submit a paper application then contact us for a form at admissionsteam@hartlepool.gov.uk or on 01429-523768.”