THE next round of applications for secondary school places in Thurrock opens on Thursday 1 September 2022.

Parents and carers of children who were born between 1 September 2011 and 31 August 2012 will be able to apply for a secondary school place from this date. The deadline for applications this year is 11.59pm on Monday 31 October.

Prospective parents and carers are invited to join an upcoming briefing session on Thursday 15 September which will support them through completing an application and allow them to ask questions about the process. Details on upcoming sessions and how to register your interest will be added to thurrock.gov.uk/admissions on Thursday 1 September.

Thurrock Council education portfolio holder Cllr Barry Johnson said: "The September term is almost here, but for many families across Thurrock it's time to begin preparing for the changes that come into effect in 12 months' time.

"Making the move up to primary or secondary school can be an exciting time for our young people. By fully considering the options for your child, and following the instructions outlined in the application process, you can quickly and easily make your school application online.

"Once applications close at the end of October, our services will once again process over 2,000 secondary applications with outcomes due to be announced in March 2023."

Primary school admissions will open later this year, on Tuesday 1 November.

For more information and to apply online this September, go to thurrock.gov.uk/admissions.