OVER 97 per cent of Somerset’s children were offered a secondary school place at one of their top three school choices, according to figures released by Somerset County Council.
And 93.5 per cent received their first preference, both representing an increase on last year’s figures.
Cllr Frances Nicholson, cabinet member for children and families, said: “I am delighted that this year an even higher proportion of Somerset children have been offered a place at their chosen secondary school – thanks to the hard work of our teams.
“I wish all the children the very best as they start the next stage of their education in September and, with the schools’ help, begin to explore their future and achieve their potential.
“We continue to plan ahead and have just launched a huge investment school building to make sure we have the right number of places for our growing school population.”
Of the 4,490 applications, 4,199 were given their top choice of school, 149 their second choice and 29 their third choice.
Parents and carers of children not offered one of their top three secondary school preferences can appeal Somerset County Council’s decision. Information about the appeal process can be found at www.somerset.gov.uk.