More Bucks children offered first choice secondary schools places this year

Nearly four out of every five pupils in Buckinghamshire have been offered their first choice of secondary school in this year’s allocations.

Figures for Buckinghamshire show that 78% of the 6917 children who applied for a school place were given their first-choice preference. This compares to 74% in 2020. A total of 99% of children in Buckinghamshire who applied in this year’s process received an offer of a school place on Tuesday 1 March.

Anita Cranmer, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services said: “I know that the wait to find out what secondary school your child has been allocated can be a tense time for many families. I am delighted that this year we have been able to improve on our figures to give 78% of those who applied their first-choice preference.

“The school system we operate in Buckinghamshire can sometimes cause complications but I’m so pleased that we have been able to support the majority of our families in finding the right school for their child, to help them continue their education in the school of their choice.”

Just over 10% of applicants received their second-choice placement and 4% were offered their third choice. Only a handful of children, (0.0187%) have not yet been allocated a place. The reasons for this include late applications and preferences for schools far outside catchment or not meeting individual schools’ entry requirements.

Offers must be accepted by 11.59pm on Monday 14 March. Families who wish to appeal their allocation can do so by following the guidance given on the Council website.