Parents in County Durham are reminded that the deadline is looming to apply for secondary school places for their children. Applications for the next academic year, which starts in September 2017, need to be made by 31 October 2016. Cllr Ossie Johnson, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “We know that education is one of the most important aspects of a young person’s life, and that for parents the decision of where to send their children is a big one. “In our county we benefit from many schools with superb facilities and dedicated, talented staff, and we hope that through our admissions system mums and dads can express their preferences which they believe will ensure their children enjoy a happy and successful continuation of their school career.” Applications can be made online, at www.durham.gov. uk/schooladmissions, or by post. Forms can be requested by phoning 03000 265896 or by writing to the School Admissions and Transport Team at Durham County Council, County Hall, Durham, DH1 5UJ. If posting, the forms should be sent back using signed for or special delivery services. Offers of places will be made to parents on 1 March 2017. If you apply online you will receive an offer email. If you apply by post you will receive an offer letter. These should arrive by no later than 1 or 2 March 2017.