Apply now for 2024 primary school places

A young girl walks to school holding her father's hand.

Primary school applications are now open for 2024. Children can start primary school in the September after their fourth birthday. Parents and carers of children born between 1 September 2019 and 31 August 2020 need to apply.

Applications are open from today, Monday 6 November, until Monday 15 January. This is the national closing date.

Applications received after 15 January will be considered after on time applications. This means applying late could reduce the chance of getting a place at a preferred school.

Councillor Tony Ball, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, said:

Starting school for the first time marks an exciting milestone in a child’s life and we want to ensure the application process is as smooth as possible for parents and carers.

Parents applying on time and using their four preferences will help to ensure their child gets the best possible opportunity of a place at a preferred school for when they start their primary education from September 2024.

Find out more and apply for a primary school place for 2024

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