100 pupils are refused all 3 school choices

ONE hundred pupils missed out on their top three primary school preferences across Hull and the East Riding.

More than 90 per cent of children in our region were granted a first, second or third preference place as they head to school for the first time in September.

A total of 76 children in Hull and 24 in the East Riding did not get a place at any of their three preferences.

Exactly 6,331 places were allocated across both areas, with parents being told which school their children will attend on Thursday, April 16, also called National Offer Day.

In Hull, 3,314 places were allocated across 71 schools while 3,017 applications were processed in the East Riding.

More than 93 per cent of Hull families got their first choice of school. Almost 98 per cent got one of their top three preferences.

In the East Riding, more than 97 per cent got their first choice while more than 99 per cent were allocated one of their three preferences.

Peter Clark, Hull City Council’s portfolio holder for learning, skills and safeguarding children, said he was pleased so many parents had been allocated one of their three choices.

Cllr Clark said: “I’m pleased almost 98 per cent of families have been allocated one of their preferred school options.

“We look forward to delivering education to all of the city’s children once this unprecedented time is over.”

Cllr Julie Abraham, East Riding Council’s portfolio holder for children, young people and education, said she was grateful to officials for providing a “seamless service” during the coronavirus pandemic.

Cllr Abraham said: “The allocation of school places is an important decision for families and it is excellent news that so many parents and carers have been able to access their first choice of school for their children.

“It is disappointing when a first choice cannot be granted, but no child will be required to travel a significant distance where that was not possible.”