Parents and carers with children born between September 1 2007 and August 31 2008 only have two more weeks to apply for a nursery place.
The online nursery application system is due to close on Friday April 1.

In an important change to last year’s application process, parents should be aware that Hertfordshire County Council no longer co-ordinates the nursery admissions process, due to the increased flexibility and range of choices available.
For the first time parents are able to use one system to apply for a place at a nursery school or class, as well as a place at a private, voluntary or independent nursery, such as  a pre-school or day nursery. The online system allows for local allocation of places and you can state which nursery you would most prefer and the days you would like your child to attend.
A leaflet, ‘Applying for a nursery place’ has been being distributed to families across the county explaining how to make an application on the new online system.
To apply, visit www.hertsdirect.org/nurseryadmissions and follow the link. To find your nearest nursery use the easy online mapping facility – simply enter your postcode to find nurseries in your area.

The application and online mapping systems only include nurseries offering the 15 hours of free early years provision in Hertfordshire. If your chosen nursery is listed but appears “greyed out” you will not be able to make an online application and need to contact that nursery direct to enquire about a place for your child.
Last year 94 per cent of applicants applied online and you can check or change your application at any time up until the deadline of April 1, 2011. Parents without online access should contact their nursery of choice direct.