Number of pupils getting first choice secondary school increases

Earlier this week Year 6 pupils across the country found out what secondary school they will be attending in September.

In Buckinghamshire, 74.2% of pupils received their first choice school preference, up from 73.7% last year. In total 6,645 applications were received this year, an increase of 171 on last year. This equates to 4,931 pupils being offered their first choice school.

The figure for first choice allocations rises to 84% when grammar school preferences are taken out of the equation.

Councillor Anita Cranmer, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills explained: “The figure of 74.2% doesn’t reflect the fact that due to the nature of the selective system in Buckinghamshire, not every child in the county is successful in gaining entry to a grammar school, even if they place it first choice on their list.

“The figure of 84% accounts for the fact that a large number of pupils who don’t achieve a grammar place are still allocated the first choice of upper school they have listed.

“We are pleased that the number of children receiving their first choice school is rising. Obviously, it would be preferable if 100% of all children were given a place in their first choice school, but we will continue to work with schools and families to ensure that we are able to build on this figure and strive to  achieve the best for all our children in Buckinghamshire.”