PARENTS of Barry children in years seven to nine have been invited to information sessions ahead of the deadline to apply for places at the two new secondary schools.

Barry Comprehensive School and Bryn Hafren comprehensive School will both close in July 2018 and will be replaced by two new mixed-sex secondary schools from September 2018.

Ahead of this, parents of pupils currently below year 10 in Barry and Bryn Hafren Comprehensive Schools must apply for a place at one of the two new mixed sex schools.

Executive head teacher for both new schools, Dr Vince Browne said: “This is a really exciting time for education in Barry and the first pupils to see the benefit of mixed schooling will be those currently in years seven to nine.

“Parents in Barry now have greater choice than ever when considering which school they would like their children to attend. There are a whole range of factors which may influence their decision and so we are holding sessions at each site where parents can come along, ask questions, and hopefully leave able to make the best choice for their child.”

The sessions are being held at Cadoxton Primary School and Romilly Primary School on Monday, September 25 and Tuesday, September 26.

All parents will receive an invite through their child’s current school.

The admissions process for the two new schools started on September, 15 2017 and parents have until October, 20 to make their application online.

Each of the new mixed sex schools will have its own catchment area and applicants living within this will be given priority in the event of oversubscription for either school.

All parents will need to ensure they complete an application for their child to secure a place at their local school.

Information about the admissions process and the transformation of secondary schooling in Barry can be found at valeofglamorgan.gov.uk