Growing majority of Bucks families get first choice primary school place

Figures published today (Tuesday 19 April) show that more than 9 out of 10 families in Buckinghamshire received their first-choice preference for a primary school place this year.

For children starting Reception, 90.75% received their first-choice allocation (compared to 89.27% last year) and 96.78% of families got their top choice of Junior school (compared to 96.29% last year). The number of children being allocated a Reception place within their list of preferences is higher than the national average at 98.7% (compared to 98.4% nationally).

Anita Cranmer, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services said: “I am delighted that once again this year, we have been able to offer a greater number of children a place at their first choice of primary school.

“Starting school is such a key milestone in any child’s life and it is important that parents are able to choose the right school for their child. The transition from Infants to Juniors is also an important moment, where young children face their first move from one school to another. Every parent or carer knows what is best for their individual child and family when it comes to school and so we strive to ensure the greatest number get their first-choice preference.”

In total 6022 children have been allocated places in Reception classes and 1613 children have been allocated places in Junior schools in Buckinghamshire this year. 5.88% of children got their second-choice Reception preference and 1.33% received their third preference. In Junior school allocations 1.68% got their second-choice placement and 0.06% were give their third choice. All those who applied in this year’s allocation have been offered a school place.