Wiltshire parents are being encouraged to apply for the school they would like their children to attend in September 2010.

The online application form at Wiltshire Council’s website www.wiltshire.gov.uk, will open on 1st September.

The council will receive applications for reception year at primary and infant schools, year three at junior schools and year seven at secondary schools.

Education officer, Bryan Cash said, “Last year forty percent of applications were received online a figure which increases year on year. In 2008, over 98 per cent of our online applicants rated their experience as clear or very clear.

“The online application form is aimed at making it easier for parents to submit their application on time and they get an immediate acknowledgement that their application has been received. However, parents can always complete a paper application if they would prefer.

“Whatever method is used, it is important that application forms reach us in time; those submitted by the deadline stand the best chance of getting a place at their preferred school.

For people who do not have access to the internet, paper application forms will be available from all Wiltshire schools at the beginning of term one and County Hall direct from Monday September 14. If you would like a paper copy, please call 01225 713010 after that date.”

Wiltshire Council produces booklets to help parents in finding a school place and these are available on the website or on request from 01225 713010 from 14 September. Free independent choice advice about secondary transfers is available from ASK on 08457 585072.

Every year the council handles applications for over 10,000 children for the normal intake rounds.

Last year 94 per cent of children applying for a reception place and 89 per cent of applicants for a secondary school were offered their first preference.

The closing times for applications are noon on October 16 for secondary schools, and noon on November 20 for primary schools.