Parents can today (Thurs) start applying for Dudley primary and secondary school places – and make the process quick and easy with an online system.
On September 1 the applications process opens for families looking for places for children starting primary school or transferring to secondary school in 2012.
Parents and carers can find all the information they need about the borough’s schools and apply for places at www.dudley.gov.uk/admissions
Paper applications are still available on request, but the online system means that many people will find it easier and quicker to apply.
The benefits of applying online include flexibility, in-built security features and online notification when the allocation results are known.
If families do not have access to a computer, free drop-in sessions using public computers will be run at libraries across the borough during September and October. Schools admissions staff will be on hand throughout the sessions to give help and advice.
Sessions will be held at: Wordsley Library on September 21 from 3 to 5pm, Dudley Library on September 26 from 2pm to 4pm, Halesowen Library on October 6 from 10am to 12noon.
At Netherton Library on October 10 from 10am to 12noon, Brierley Hill Library on October 10 from 2pm to 4pm, Kingswinford Library on October 11 from 1pm to 3pm, Cradley Library on October 12 from 10am to 12noon, Coseley Library on October 12 from 2pm to 4pm.
At Stourbridge Library on October 13 from 10am to 12noon, Long Lane Library on October 13 from 2pm to 4pm, Lye Library on October 14 from 2pm to 4pm, Sedgley Library on October 17 from 2pm to 4pm and Gornal Library on October 18 from 2pm to 4pm.
Free internet access is available at Dudley Council Plus, Castle Street, Dudley, as well as all local libraries. Several schools are also offering parents the opportunity to use their facilities.
Councillor Liz Walker, cabinet member for children’s services, said:
“Online admissions increase flexibility for parents and carers and, over the past few years, we have seen a really good uptake of this system. I would also encourage any families who are keen to try this way of applying to take advantage of the drop-in sessions.”
For more information go to www.dudley.gov.uk/admissions or call 01384 814223.The closing date for all applications for secondary school places is 31 October 2011 and 16 January 2012 for primary school places.
