PARENTS and carers of children set to start or move school in 2025 can now apply for their place – and are being urged to do so as soon as possible.

Those with youngsters due to transfer to secondary or upper school in Somerset can apply for places for their children from now until October 31 via somerset.gov.uk/children-families-and-education/applying-for-school/starting-at-a-secondary-or-upper-school-in-september.

Meanwhile, parents and carers of children due to start school for the first time or transfer to junior or middle school can apply for places from September 30 until January 15 next year via somerset.gov.uk/children-families-and-education/applying-for-school/apply-to-start-school-for-the-first-time.

People with children who have special educational needs or disabilities can also find information online.

Cllr Heather Shearer, lead executive member for children, families and education at Somerset Council, said: “I encourage every parent and carer to add their three choices of school before the deadline date and include their catchment area school.

“Don’t forget to check for open days and visit your local schools to make the right choice for your child – every child can flourish with a good education so make sure you apply as soon as you can.”

Parents and carers are advised to read the Primary or Secondary Admissions Guides before making an application, which are available online.

Any parent who does not have internet access can call the Somerset Council customer contact team on 0300 123 2224.

Meanwhile, www.somerset.gov.uk/admissions contains information, including a directory of schools, catchment areas and admissions policies, to help parents.