Nearly 90 percent of Hertfordshire children have been allocated a place at their most preferred primary school.

Of the 13,491 applications for reception places received for Hertfordshire children, 12,018 have been allocated their first ranked primary school. Over 98 per cent (13,225) were allocated one of their preferred schools.

Including allocations to junior and middle schools, 16,170 Hertfordshire children will be informed of their offer of their school place today.

Parents and carers in Hertfordshire who have confirmed their email address will be sent their allocations this afternoon (Monday 17 April). Allocation information will then be made available online at www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/primaryoptions

Simon Newland, Director of Education at Hertfordshire County Council, said: "Giving every child the best possible start in life by securing a place at a good school is all part of our vision to ensure healthy and fulfilling lives for our residents.

"While I appreciate that a small number of parents may be disappointed with the school they have been allocated, I would encourage them to visit the school and speak to the headteacher before dismissing the offered place. They may be pleasantly surprised by what they see."

All applicants who have not been offered their first preference school will automatically be placed on the continuing interest list for any Hertfordshire schools named higher on the application form than the school offered.

Any new applications for continuing interest must be made to Hertfordshire County Council for families living in Hertfordshire.

School places must be accepted by 1 May 2023. This is also the last date to 'opt out' of continuing interest. The deadline to submit an appeal is 4pm on 16 May 2023. Further information concerning post allocation processes is available at www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/primaryoptions