A FANTASTIC 89 per cent of Southend children will start primary school in September at their first choice primary school.

Data on primary school allocations which has been announced by the Southend-on-Sea Borough Council as part of national offer day, has shown that 97 per cent of children will also start school in September at one of their top three preferences.

Out of the 1966 applications received, 1754 (89 per cent) received an offer for their first preference, 136 (seven per cent) with their second preference and 24 (one per cent) with their third preference.

Statistics also showed 52 (three per cent) received an alternative offer.

Compared to last year, these percentages have stayed the same.

Brin Martin, Director of Learning at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, said: “I am delighted that 89 per cent of local primary school children will be attending their first choice primary school come September, with 97 per cent gaining entry to one of their top three choices.

“I am conscious that there are a small number of disappointed families who did not receive any of their top three choices and I would encourage parents who find themselves in this position to contact the admissions team at the Council.

"The Council remains committed to supporting and continually improving all of our schools across the Borough which will help to ensure that there are sufficient places offering good quality and choice to local parents and carers.”