For the first time parents can apply for the their child's nursery and junior school place online.

Anyone with children in Sutton must apply through Sutton Council before the deadline of Thursday 31 October 2013 for secondary school places for September 2014 and Wednesday 15 January 2014 for primary, junior and nursery school places.

Parents who miss these deadlines risk not getting a school of their preference.

There is also an online guidance booklet which outlines the full application process and explains what parents need to do in order to apply for a school place for their child.

Councillor Dave Callaghan, Suttton Council's chairman of the children, family and education committee said: "Reports have also shown that while our schools remain extremely popular, for example, over 80 per cent of applicants get their first choice secondary school – more than almost anywhere else in London.

"I’d urge parents and carers to log-on before the deadline and fill out the online application form to make their preferences known."

Parents can view the new home to school distance checker, watch a tutorial video, and apply online at www.sutton.gov.uk/admissions.

Parents without internet access at home can use the internet for free at any local library or attend assisted sessions in the Library @ the Phoenix Centre, Wallington, on Monday 16 September 9.30am-1.30pm and Tuesday 17 September 2-6pm; and at the Civic Offices, Sutton on Wednesday 25 September 2-6pm and Thursday 26 September 9.30am-1.30pm.