Ninety-one per cent secure primary school choice

Most children in Reading will be going to their first-choice primary school this year, Reading Borough Council says.

91% got their first choice and 99% were offered one of their top three. The council received 1,846 primary applications - 104 more than 2025.

115 pupils needed the usual infant-to-junior transfer and 100% of on-time applicants got their first preference.

Brian Grady, director of education at the council, said: "I am delighted we have been able to offer almost all Reading families a place at one of their top three preferred primary schools this year.

"I'd like to extend a huge thank you to all primary school staff across Reading for their hard work and commitment, as well as to the Admissions team for making sure every child in the borough has been offered a place.

"Good luck to every Reading child starting primary school this September. I hope you thoroughly enjoy your time in your first school."

The council could not offer places at any of its schools to 19 pupils because those schools were oversubscribed. It will still be legally required to find them somewhere local with a space.

If you're unhappy with an allocation you can appeal - you can still appeal for a first-choice school even if you've accepted a second or third offer, and each appeal is heard independently. Appeals can be unsuccessful if a school has no capacity. Check your council's website for how to appeal.

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter

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