Skip to main contentEnter
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

Applications open for 2025 school places in Ipswich, parents urged to apply before deadline

News
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Parents and carers in Ipswich and Suffolk can now apply for primary and secondary school places for September 2025.

The big picture: Suffolk County Council is accepting applications for the 2025 school year, with different deadlines for primary and secondary schools.

  • Secondary school applications are due by 31 October 2024

  • Primary, infant and junior school applications are due by 15 January 2025

Why it matters: Applying on time significantly improves the chances of getting a place at a preferred school.

Last year:

  • 94.7% of on-time applicants received their first choice school

  • 98.5% received one of their top three choices

What they're saying: Councillor Andrew Reid, Suffolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Education and SEND, said: "Parents and carers need to carefully consider which schools to apply for on behalf of their child.

"To make sure they have the best chance of getting a place at one of their preferred schools, they need to make sure they complete and submit their application by the relevant closing date."

What to do:

  1. Check your nearest suitable school at http://nearestschool.suffolk.gov.uk/

  2. Consider how your child will travel to school before applying

  3. Apply online at www.suffolk.gov.uk/admissions

  4. List up to three school preferences on the application

Key dates:

  • 3 March 2025: Secondary school offers announced

  • 16 April 2025: Primary school offers announced

The bottom line: Even if you're planning to move, it's crucial to apply on time using your current address. The council recommends applying based on your current situation in case proposed moves fall through.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

Ipswich's only free and independent news publication

Support our journalism

We can't do this without you! Unlike the Ipswich Star and East Anglian Daily Times, Ipswich.co.uk has no banner advertising and no wealthy US corporate owners.

So, if you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for a better Ipswich, please consider contributing just £24 per year.

Every penny matters and allows us to keep producing good quality local journalism that respects your time, attention and privacy.

Become a supporter

Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

News
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

Load next article