PARENTS are taking drastic steps to get their children into good schools, with more than a quarter willing to act dishonestly to secure a place, according to a new survey.

Underhand measures considered by parents include falsifying addresses and lying about religious commitments.

Of the 1,232 parents who took part in the YouGov survey, 29 per cent said they would definitely or probably consider at least one dishonest measure if unhappy with the nearest state school.

One in five respondents would be prepared to lie or exaggerate their religious beliefs if it would help get their child into the school of their choice.

Up to 15 per cent of parents would consider falsifying their address to gain access to a good school.

And 10 per cent of couples would consider pretending they were divorced with one parent living in the school catchment area.