The new school year may just be about to start but it's already time for parents and carers across Hertfordshire including Hitchin to start planning for next year as the application process for transfer to secondary schools opens today, Thursday (September 1).

If your child starts secondary, upper or university technical college next year, make sure you apply for a place in good time.

The easiest way to apply for a school place for September 2023 is to visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/admissions and complete the online application form.

Online applications for Hitchin Boys' School, Hitchin Girls' School and the Priory School on Bedford Road, can be amended at any time before the closing date, and you can access your school offer before allocation letters are received and accept your school allocation online.

Last year 99 per cent of parents applied in this way and found the system quick, easy and secure.

Cllr Terry Douris, Cabinet Member for Education, said: "We want every child in the county to be able to achieve their full potential, and Hertfordshire secondary schools provide an excellent education to thousands of pupils.

"We understand that parents and carers will want to obtain a place at their preferred school for their children, and we work very hard with the admitting authorities of schools to satisfy parental preference wherever possible. Last year over 94% of children in Hertfordshire were allocated one of their four ranked schools.

"All secondary schools will have open events, whether these are virtual tours or school visits. I would urge parents to check the arrangements to view their local schools before applying, consider carefully which schools they rank and to make use of all their preferences."

Information explaining the secondary transfer process will be distributed to families through their child's primary, junior or middle school at the beginning of September.

The closing date for secondary applications is Monday, October 31, 2022 and it is vital that parents make their applications on time.