Most primary pupils get the school place they want

Figures for primary school admissions show that more than 88 per cent will get their first preference and nearly eight per cent will go to schools which were their second or third preference.

The remaining three per cent have been allocated places at other schools.

The number of children receiving preferred places is likely to rise as appeals are heard and adjustments are made.

Careful planning and management of the required number of school places needed means that the vast majority of four-year-olds will be lining up in the playground of their preferred school.

Debbie Ormerod, Lancashire County Council’s school admissions manager, said: “This is an exciting but anxious time of year for parents as they find out where their child will be starting school.

“Careful planning means that nearly 97 per cent of parents have been allocated a place at one of the schools they wanted with the majority getting a place at the school they wanted the most.

“Importantly, once again we’ve been able to offer every child in Lancashire a school place.

“School places are allocated fairly and objectively and every application is agreed upon using the criteria which has been agreed for that school.

“However, I know it can be very disappointing for parents if they are one of the few who don’t get one of their preferences, and our local admissions teams will be happy to give information and advice.”

This year more parents than ever – more than 97 per cent overall – completed their application online.

A total of 13,769 children have received primary school place offers this year.

For advice and information on school admissions and appeals, parents can telephone 01524 581112 or 01524 581134.

Everyone whose initial offer is not for their preferred school will automatically receive a form with information about waiting lists and the appeals process.

Appeals are heard locally and those for primary schools will take place during May and June.