The number of Bolton children needing high school places was the highest in recent years, figures released on National Offer Day reveal.

But the numbers of children achieving their first choice was in line with last year's figure - although one in five youngsters missed out.

The local education authority recieved 4,472 applications for secondary school places, which was and incraese of 141 on last year.

A breakdown of figures shows that in Bolton 81.1 per cent of Year Six pupils - 3,628- received their first preference; 10.1 per cent, or 453 children, received their second choice; a total of 127 children or 2.8 per cent received their third preference and 264 young people equivalent to 5.9 per cent did not have a preference or receive one of their top choices.

Bolton schools experienced an increase in applications for places compared to last year

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Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Anne Galloway, said: “A secondary school offer has been made to every child who has applied for a place in Bolton.

“This year has seen the highest demand for places in recent years, with over a hundred more applications compared to last year.

“Despite this demand, 94.1 per cent of applicants have been offered a place at one of their preferred schools.

“This is a direct result of our work to increase both the number and variety of places on offer, by adding new schools and expanding capacity in existing secondaries.”

Last year 95.1 per cent of children received one of their top three choices.

Numbers could increase as parents appeal or send children to an independent school.

England’s school system has been put under pressure in recent years as a population bulge has been moving into secondary schools.

 

Did your child get the secondary school place they wanted? Let us know in the comments.