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

Parents urged to apply for Ipswich secondary school places 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

Ipswich parents have until 31 October to secure their child's preferred secondary school place for September 2025.

The big picture: Last year, 93% of Suffolk applicants received their first preference school, with almost 98% getting one of their top three choices. However, this high success rate depends on submitting applications on time.

Why it matters: Late applications significantly reduce the chances of getting a first-choice school.

Key details:

  • The application deadline is Thursday 31 October 2024

  • Applications are for children starting Year 7 in September 2025

  • Parents can list up to three preferred schools

  • Online applications receive email confirmation

  • Paper applications available but require proof of postage

What they're saying: Councillor Andrew Reid, Suffolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Education and SEND, said: "It is important for parents and carers to complete and submit their application by the closing date of 31 October 2024 as this will give them the best chance of securing a place at one of their preferred schools."

What to consider:

  • For school transport eligibility visit www.suffolkonboard.com/schooltravel

  • Make sure you consider potential changes to your circumstances before September 2025

  • Apply for more than one school to increase your chances

How to apply:

  1. Visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/admissions

  2. Complete the online application (recommended) or paper form (CAF1)

  3. Submit before 31 October 2024

What's next: Offers will be available online on National Offer Day (Monday 3 March 2025). Paper applicants will receive offer letters by second-class post.

The bottom line: Ipswich parents should act now to ensure the best chance of securing their preferred secondary school place for their child.

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