TO secure a primary school place for September 2015, Hillingdon Council is reminding parents to apply online before January 15.

They are also encouraged by the admissions team to attend open evenings to hear a talk by the head teacher, meet the teaching staff, take a tour of the school and meet current pupils.

A late application may result in a child not being offered a place, even if they live close to the school or have an older sibling already attending.

Applications for primary school places can be submitted online at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/schools and parents can also request a paper application from the school admissions team.

Cllr David Simmonds, cabinet member for education, said: "A child starting primary school is an exciting time for parents. We want to make sure they get off to a good start and have the best chance of being allocated their preferred choice.”