Parents and carers have until Friday next week to apply for a full-time place for their child at their preferred primary school for the 2016/2017 school year.

Anyone with children born between September 1, 2011 and August 31, 2012 can apply for up to three schools either online, which is recommended, or via a written application form.

An application must be made, even if the child already has a place in a nursery class, pre-school or children’s centre.

Any applications received after January 15 will be considered after all the other applications have been processed.

Out of 7,928 applications Suffolk County Council received last year, 90.2% of applicants received offers for their first preference and 97.2% of applicants received an offer from one of their three preferences.

Gordon Jones, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, education and skills, said: “If you have a child who will turn 4 before 31 August 2016, time is running out to apply for a reception school place for September if you have not already done so.

“It is so important that we receive your application by the 15 January 2016 deadline as this will give you the best chance of securing a place for your child at one of your preferred schools.”

To apply online or download an application form, click here. For more, call 0345 600 0981.