More than 96% of pupils have been offered their first choice secondary school for this September, figures released today confirm – up from 94% last year. Parents and carers have been informed.

Out of 5,238 applicants resident in Cumbria, who applied by the closing date, 5047 (96.4%) were offered a place at their first preference school, and 98.9% of parents/carers securing an offer at their first, second or third preference school (providing second/third preferences were given).

Parents and carers who have not been offered places for their children at their first preference school are being provided with information about how to lodge an appeal.

Councillor Sue Sanderson, Cumbria County Council’s Cabinet Member for schools and learning, said:

“It’s fantastic news that the vast majority of pupils have secured a place at their first choice secondary school. Young people in Cumbria are more likely to get a place at the secondary they want than most other places in the country. That will be a great comfort to the majority of parents and carers in the county and I wish pupils and their families all the very best for their new school.”

Following the allocation of school places, there may be a small number of pupils who have been offered a place at their preferred school but due to a change in circumstances might have changed their mind since submitting a request for a school place.

If anybody is in this position, they should contact the school admissions team on 01228 221582 or email school.admissions@cumbria.gov.uk.