Starting primary school is an exciting time for children and parents, but it can also be a stressful time. Decisions have to be made on the schools to apply for, and then the wait to see if the application has been successful.

But there are a few key things that can be done which will help to make the process as smooth as possible:

• Visiting schools before applying to get as much information as possible - a full list of schools in Cardiff can be found online viawww.cardiff.gov.uk/schools

• Submitting applications by the 8^thJanuary, 2018 closing date

• Making use of the full number of preferences available by applying for three schools

As well as local authority primary schools, known as community schools, parents can also apply directly to faith schools. More information on the application process for the different types of schools is available online atwww.cardiff.gov.uk/schooladmissions

Timeline for making a primary school application

November

• 13th November 2017 - date online applications for primary schools open (visitwww.cardiff.gov.uk/schooladmissions)

January

• 8th January 2018 - closing date for primary schools applications 

Some important things to bear in mind when applying

• A school place won't be offered if you don't make an application

• Listing the same school more than once doesn't give you a better chance of getting a place there

• A place at your catchment school isn't guaranteed, but it is best to include it in yourlist of preferences, evenif you put it lower down

• Accepting an offer of a place at a lower preference school doesn't jeopardise your chances of getting an offer for your higher preference - you can still accept an offer from your preferred school if a place becomes available at a later date

• A brother or sister already in a school doesn't guarantee a place there, but make sure you include their details on the application

• Going to the nursery attached to your preferred school doesn't mean an automatic reception class place - a new application needs to be made

A late application can seriously affect the chances of getting a place, so make a note of the closing date; here's a reminder:

• Primary Schools: Monday 8th January 2018

If you also have a child going to secondary school next year, here's another closing date to remember:

• Secondary Schools: Monday 4th December 2017

To find out more about the school admissions process in Cardiff, and to apply online, visitwww.cardiff.gov.uk/schooladmissions