Skip to content

Easter service changes

During the Easter period, some of our services will be operating slightly different hours. Our council’s bin collection schedule will change for one week starting on Friday 29 March to make sure everyone’s waste is picked up around the bank holiday.

See the full schedule and your amended rubbish and recycling collection dates and other service changes including parking and library opening times over the Easter period.

Graduation hat icon

Apply for a secondary school place

If your child is due to start secondary school, you must apply online

Choosing the right school for your child

  1. Apply on time – only 40% of applicants who applied late were offered one of their preferred schools compared to 97% of on time applicants
  2. Remember to apply even if your child’s older sibling already attends your preferred school. There is no automatic entry for siblings – you must submit an application
  3. Check the school website – there is a wealth of useful information available.
  4. Visit schools – this is the best way to get a ‘feel’ for the school. You can meet a member of the leadership team, ask questions and see the school in action. 
  5. Think about what is right for your child – don’t rely on what others tell you, visit the school and experience it first-hand
  6. Talk to your child – involve them as much as you can
  7. Think about the journey – how easy will it be to get to the school? A local school means your child can walk from home, benefitting their health and the environment. 
  8. Check the admission criteria and cut-off distance – how likely is it that your child will be offered a place? You can check by clicking on the link in the school fact file in the secondary admissions booklet
  9. Use all six preferences – make sure you include at least one local school
  10. Ask the School Admissions team for advice – they can’t tell you which schools to apply for, but they can explain the admission criteria and check whether you would have got a place last year 

Make sure you press ‘submit’ when you finish your online application. You should then receive a reference number confirming safe receipt. If you need further advice, contact the school admissions team.

Was this information helpful?



Data protection: We will handle your personal information in line with the Data Protection Act 1998 and in accordance with the council’s Fair Processing Notice.