Primary school places

Nearly all children due to start primary school in Leicestershire this autumn have secured a place at one of their top preferences.

Figures released today (National School Place Offer Day) show that 99.1 per cent of youngsters – 6,885 pupils - who applied have been given a place at one of their top three schools.

A total of 94 per cent secured their first preference, while just over four per cent secured their second, and under one per cent secured their third preference. 99.3 per cent secured one of their top five preferences, with 100% of children transferring from Infant to Junior school securing their first preference.

Leicestershire County Council received 6,948 on-time applications, a decrease of 193 pupils on last year.

Tim Browne, assistant director for education, inclusion and additional needs at the county council said: 

“We know starting school for the first time is a big deal and we are pleased to have been able to offer so many children places at their preferred school.

“Although most have been given places they’d like, we know this isn’t the case for everyone.

“We’d encourage any family in need of advice to contact our School Admissions Service to discuss the options available, which includes an appeal.”

In Warwickshire, there were 6,535 Warwickshire children who applied for a Reception place by the application deadline of 15 January. Of these, 88% have been given a place at their first-choice school. A further 9% have been given a place at either their second or third choice, meaning 97% have been given a place at one of their top three preferred schools.

Johnny Kyriacou, Director of Education at Warwickshire County Council said:

“I’m delighted to see so many children who are either starting or continuing their education journey in Warwickshire being given one of their top three choices of schools. We’re proud to have excellent schools in Warwickshire, providing our children with the best start to their education and I know they are looking forward to welcoming new pupils from September.”