There is just under a week left until the deadline for applying for primary school places.

Parents and carers have until January 15 to apply for the preferred primary school for child born between September 1, 2010 and 31 August, 2011.

The application can be for up to three schools either online (the recommended method) or using the paper application form.

An application must be made even if the child already has a place in a nursery class, pre-school or children’s centre.

Councillor Lisa Chambers, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for education and skills, said: “Choosing the right primary school for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent or carer has to make.

“That is why we hope that by now, people will have considered the schools that they would like to apply for places in and visited them.

“That gives them the information they need to make informed choices about their child’s future.

“If not, please make this a New Year priority as time is running out.

“It’s important that parents and carers use the opportunity to apply for up to three schools, in order of preference, so that we can best match their preferences within the application rules.

Any parents or carers who have not yet applied for a school place should apply online or download an application form.

You can do this by visiting www.suffolk.gov.uk/admissionstoschools or contact Suffolk County Council on 0345 600 0981.