Almost all primary school starters get top choices

Almost all children in London who are due to start primary school in September have been offered a place in one of their preferred schools.

Out of a total of 80,706, 96.6% of pupils were offered a place at one of their top three preferences of primary school, according to London Councils.

The total number of pupils applying for a place in London's primary schools has dropped once more with 83,581 - a decrease of 2.1% compared with last year.

Ian Edwards, from London Councils, said the drop in pupil numbers could "pose a challenge to schools' resources".

The body, which represents the capital's local authorities, said application numbers were affected by several factors, including falling birth rate and the "severe shortage of affordable housing prompting families to leave the capital".

Analysis from London Councils forecasts a 3.6% fall in reception pupil numbers over the next four years.

This equates to 3,195 places, or roughly equivalent to a drop of 117 reception classes.

Mr Edwards said: "Boroughs will continue working closely with schools to meet local needs and help families make the most of the high-quality educational opportunities available in the capital."

The number of pupils receiving their first choice school was 87.9%, a drop of 1.2 percentage points from last year.

Jon Abbey, chair of the Pan-London Admissions Board, said: "Where parents and pupils have not been offered their first preference it is because, in some schools, demand outstrips supply.

"We advise parents to read the details of their child's offer carefully and consider their options fully before making a decision."

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