98% of parents get preferred primary school place for their children in Doncaster

Almost all families who applied received a place at one of their preferred reception classes for their child.

A total of 98 per cent of children across Doncaster have been offered a place at one of their preferred schools and 97 per cent of children will attend their first preferred school, up 1 per cent from last year and on target to exceed the national figure once again.

Out of 3,063 applications, only 59 children have been offered a place at an alternative local school.

In the majority of these cases this will be at their catchment area school.

A record number of applications were made online, with 98 per cent of this year’s applications being made electronically on the council’s website, up from 93 per cent last year in Doncaster and 94 per cent nationally.

Councillor Nuala Fennelly, who is the cabinet member for children, young people and schools, said: “These reception figures will be good news to thousands of families across Doncaster as many children start the next academic year at one of their preferred schools.

“During a period where families are facing significant challenges it is reassuring that parents have received the outcome of their applications on time and can start planning for the new school year.

“Our 98 per cent success rate is testament to our ongoing commitment in trying to ensure as many children as possible start the next academic year at one of their preferred schools.”

Parents who haven’t received their preferred school/s for their child have been offered an independent appeal.

Advice on how to appeal will be issued shortly by the local authority once new regulations has been received from the Department for Education.

The council is also happy to work with families to identify where alternative places are available, anyone considering an alternative should get in touch.

For more information on the primary school admissions visit the Doncaster Council website on https://www.doncaster.gov.uk/