Last week to apply for primary school places

Herefordshire Council is urging parents and carers of children due to start reception classes in primary schools in September this year to return their application forms to the council this week.

Education for children reaching five years of age between 1 September 2008 and 31 August 2009 is available through reception classes, which are open throughout the school year.

But completed application forms must be sent back to the council's pupil admissions team by this Friday, January 18.

Application forms not received by this date will be considered after those received on time, which means parents may not receive an officer of a place at either of the two preferences indicated on their application form - even if they have other children already in that school.

Applications should be sent to pupil admissions, children and young people's services, PO Box 185, Hereford, HR4 9ZR or can be made online.

Anyone who has not received an application form should contact the pupil admissions team on 01432 260925 or 01432 260926.

Letters notifying parents of the school allocated to their child will be sent out on Tuesday, March 25.

Councillor Jenny Hyde, cabinet member for children and young people, said: "All children develop differently and most will already be receiving early years education either at a school nursery or another childcare setting. However, it is really important that parents complete an application form for their child to enter formal schooling, irrespective of their current situation.

"Although the schools review has stimulated much debate, the proposals are for discussion only at this stage, so parents and carers are advised not to prejudge the outcome of this process.

"There are no changes proposed before September 2009 and any changes that are approved will be managed with children's welfare and continuity of education as a priority."