87% get first choice primary school for September

April 16, 2020

87% of children in Southend-on-Sea will start primary school in September 2020 at their first-choice primary school, and 96% at one of their top three preferences.

The data on primary school allocations has been announced by the Council as part of ‘national offer day’, with parents and children finding out what school their children will be starting in September.

Out of 2071 applications, 1801 (87%) received an offer for their first preference, 153 (7%) their second preference, and 40 (2%) an offer for their third choice. Seventy-seven (4%) received an alternative offer.

Cllr Anne Jones, cabinet member for children and learning, said: “Even though we find ourselves in unprecedented times, we must ensure we are fully prepared once normality resumes, and I am delighted that 87% of local primary school children will be attending their first choice primary school, hopefully, come September, and 96% one of their top three choices.

“I am conscious that there are a small number of disappointed families who did not receive any of their top three choices and families can communicate any concerns they may have with officers. The Council remains committed to supporting and continually improving all of our schools across the Borough which will help to ensure that there are sufficient places offering good quality and choice to local parents and carers.”