Three-quarters get first choice secondary school

March 1, 2017 by Southend Borough Council

Tuesday 28th February 2017

Over three-quarters (76%) of Southend-on-Sea children will start secondary school in September 2017 at their first choice school, with 90% getting one of their top three preferences.

More than 1,921 parents in Southend-on-Sea will discover the outcome of their secondary school applications tomorrow (Wednesday 1st March), with those who applied online getting confirmation by email or via the Southend-on-Sea online application service.

Out of 1,921 applications made, 93% received one of their top five preferences.

Cllr James Courtenay, Executive Councillor for Children and Learning, says: “I am pleased that over three-quarters of applicants received offers for their first preference and 90% one of their top three preferences. We make every effort to ensure that every child of secondary school age that has applied is offered a place.

“Whilst the majority of people will gain a place at one of their preferred schools, we always recognise that there will be disappointed families who did not receive either their first choice or who did not receive any of their top three.

“Looking forwards, we are working hard on plans to increase the number of pupil places available locally and recently committed an additional £20m in our capital budget to fund a secondary school expansion programme in the coming years, improve facilities available and help to ensure that there are sufficient places offering good quality and choice to our young people and their parents and carers.”