More than 98 per cent of pupils have been offered their first-choice primary school in the Westmorland and Furness Council area for children starting school this September, figures released today confirm.

Of 1,753 applicants across the area applying for primary school places in September 2024, 1,727 were allocated their first preference.

99.8 per cent were offered either their first, second or third preference school.

Parents/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.

As a newly established Local Authority, this is the first time that Westmorland and Furness Local Authority has managed the primary phased admissions process.

Milorad Vasic, Director of Children’s Services at Westmorland and Furness Council, said: “I recognise how stressful the start of school and the transition can be, so I am delighted that so many children have secured a place at one of their preferred schools.

“We would like to thank our schools for all their support and for working so closely with families to ensure the local authority received as many on-time applications as possible. I wish all children who are starting primary school this September every success and happiness.”

Parents and carers have been informed of their allocated school via email or letter, depending on their preference.

However, parents and carers are advised to contact Westmorland and Furness School Admissions Team at school.admissions@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk if they have any queries and a member of the team will be pleased to assist.