Increase in number of pupils getting first choice secondary school in Buckinghamshire

There has been an increase in the number of pupils getting their first choice of secondary school in Buckinghamshire.

Earlier this week, Year 6 pupils across Buckinghamshire found out what secondary school they will be attending in September 2020.

The allocation figures for Buckinghamshire show that 74.2% of pupils received their first choice school preference, up from 73.7% last year.

In total 6,645 applications were received for entry 2020, an increase of 171 on 2019, meaning that 4,931 pupils being offered their first choice school.

When grammar school preferences are taken out of the equation the figure for first choice allocations rises to 84%.

Councillor Anita Cranmer, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills at Buckinghamshire County Council explained: ‘The figure of 74.2% doesn’t reflect the fact that due to the nature of the selective system in Buckinghamshire, not every child in the county is successful in gaining entry to a grammar school, even if they place it first choice on their list.

The figure of 84% accounts for the fact that a large number of pupils who don’t achieve a grammar place are still allocated the first choice of upper school they have listed.

We are pleased that the number of children receiving their first choice school is rising. Obviously, it would be preferable if 100% of all children were given a place in their first choice school, but we will continue to work with schools and families to ensure that we are able to build on this figure and strive to achieve the best for all our children in Buckinghamshire.‘

*Source of article : Press release from Buckinghamshire County Council.