TRAFFORD council's new online secondary school admissions service has proven a resounding success.

In its first year of operation, 17 per cent of parents took up the opportunity to apply for schools for September 2007 via the council's website.

This smashed Government targets, which stated a 10 per cent uptake within two years would be 'excellent'.

Ian Mullins, executive councillor for children and young people's services, said: "This fantastic first year success with online admissions applications demonstrates the demand for this greater accessibility and we are delighted to have been able to offer local parents the chance to apply through the website.

"What is even more encouraging and exciting is the fact that this easy to use, value for money system has been developed in house, with staff working together to make sure it is the most effective it can be.

"All too often local authorities buy in expensive packages which they then find create frustrations and problems for people trying to access and use them, something we wanted to avoid."

For more information about how to apply for secondary school places online log on to the council's website www.trafford.gov.uk and follow the links to school admissions where there is a section on e-admissions.