April 16, 2013 10.09 am This story is over 131 months old

Lincolnshire kids get first choice schools despite high demand

More children: An increased number of primary children managed to get their top choice of school despite a big rise in applications.
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Over 90% of schoolchildren in Lincolnshire received their first choice primary school this week, despite an increased demand on schools.

Lincolnshire is receiving higher numbers of primary-aged children starting school in September, meaning popular schools are seeing increased demand.

This year, 7,325 children needed a school place this year and 92% (6,762) got their first choice of school.

Another 4.9% (361) managed to get into their second choice of school, and 1.0% (70) got their third choice instead.

Only 132 children were offered a school that was not on their list of preferences, compared to 169 last year.

Parents can see their offer using the online system — which 98% used — from Tuesday, April 16.

Those wanting to lodge an appeal can do so up until May 17, so the appeal can be heard before the start of term. Appeals submitted after the date will be considered too, but may not be heard before the start of term.

Lincolnshire County Council also stress that due to appeals and movements of the reserve list, parents my find they secure their first preference before the beginning of term.

Debbie Barnes, Director of Children’s Services, said: “I am delighted to see so many children getting their first school of preference and this should be even better by September.

“It is always our intention to support as many parents as possible with their preferences. There are many stories about how stressful the admissions process can be but every year the overwhelming majority of parents are successful in gaining admission to the school of their choice.”