Forget Brexit – there’s another important deadline looming at the end of this month.

Parents have until Thursday October 31 to apply for secondary school places for pupils starting in September 2020.

Don’t let the ghostly goings-on at Hallowe’en catch you out this year – please remember that applications for secondary school places in Lancashire need to be in by Thursday 31 October.

The online application system is open until 11:59 pm for all those applying.

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The quickest and easiest way to apply is online via the county council’s website.

It is important to remember that parents need to submit an application form for all children starting school, especially if the child has an older brother or sister at the school concerned.

If you’re applying for a place for a child starting primary school, the closing date is 15 January 2020, but making sure your application is in early gives you extra time in case there are queries.

For more information, go to www.lancashire.gov.uk/schools

You can also call 0300 123 6707.

Parents whose children attend Lancashire schools or academies, but live in another local authority area, should apply via the local authority where they live.

Which schools are the best in Preston? Let us know in the comments section.