Applications for primary school and secondary school spaces for 2022 have gone live.

Lancashire County Council have begun accepting applications today (September 1).

County Councillor Jayne Rear, cabinet member for education and skills, said: "The number of people who chose to apply online last year was really high.

"Online is a quick, easy and secure way to apply for school places.

"The application process goes live today, so I would encourage parents to go online as soon as possible.

“I'm sure they will find it useful to familiarise themselves with the process and take a look at the admissions criteria of the schools they're considering.

"Unfortunately some applications come in late every year and these simply can't be considered at the same time as those we receive on time.

“It is much better to be prepared early, rather than rushing your application close to the deadline.

“This way there is time to spare to sort out any problems or get any advice.

"It is important to remember as well that having a child already at a school does not automatically mean that a brother or sister will be allocated a place – you must still apply."

The national closing dates are October 31, 2021 for secondary schools, and January 15, 2022 for primary schools.

Last year 95% of parents applied online for primary and secondary school places.