APPLICATIONS for Lancashire school places have gone live.

Parents and carers  can now apply for children starting primary or secondary school in September 2025.

Submitting applications before the deadline increases the chances of securing preferred schools, says Lancashire County Council.

All applications received up to the deadline will receive equal priority, but late appliers risk missing out on school preferences.

Applications must be made even if a brother or sister is already at the school, or if the school is linked to the child's nursery.

The deadline for primary school applications is January 15, 2025, while the deadline for secondary school applications is October 31, 2024.

Lancashire County Council also recommends reading the admission criteria for the chosen school online, or contacting the school for a hard copy.

Councillor Jayne Rear said: "Applying online is quick and easy and the whole process should only take a few minutes."

Children may be able to get free transport to school, depending on how far the walk is.

There is also support for families on low incomes.

If travel cost is a factor in determining school preference, guidance is available on the council's website or by calling 01254 220747.

More information is available at www.lancashire.gov.uk/schools