More than 6,000 offered place at primary school

THIS year a total of 6,370 Gloucestershire children have been offered a primary school place for September, with 98 per cent being admitted to one of their preferred schools.

Ninety-one percent of pupils received a place at their first preference school.

County councillor Philip Robinson, cabinet member for economy, education & skills, said: “It’s that time of year when some of our young people find out where the next stage of their education will be. Starting primary school is a big step and we wish all pupils well for this next stage of their journey.

“We aim to ensure that as many children as possible are able to attend a school of their choice and we’re pleased to have been able to achieve this for the vast majority.”

Those who did not apply online will receive a letter including the place on offer and the reasons why. This letter is specific to each pupil and contains an explanation for the decision made.

Parents are encouraged to accept their place online or return their reply forms as soon as possible, and have until April 26 to either accept their school place or request an alternative.

If parents ask for their child’s school place to be reconsidered, they will be placed on the waiting list for their preferred schools. If places then become available as some parents change their preferences over the coming months, they will be offered a place in line with the school’s admission policy.

Parents unhappy with their initial offer are encouraged to keep their place as this will ensure that, whatever the outcome of the reconsideration, their child will have a place at a school in September.

The county council will write to parents with the result of the reconsideration after May 17 and parents will have until May 24 to reply. Those still not satisfied with their given school will be advised of the appeals procedure.

The admission criteria and more information is available at gloucestershire.gov.uk/schooladmissions