Merton Council has been able to offer over 80% of parents in the borough applying for primary school places their top choice of school. Over 90% of Merton parents received one of their top three preferences.

Last week local parents received their offer of a primary school place for September this year. As a result of its major investment in expanding the borough’s schools, the council was able to provide 2,670 reception year places – a 30% increase compared with four years ago – to meet increased demand.

These additional places ensured 80.5% of residents were offered their first choice, which was both an increase from last year and higher than the London average of 78.2%. A second round of offers is planned for late May.

Merton Council cabinet member for children’s services and education Councillor Maxi Martin said: “I am delighted that our continuing school expansion programme has enabled us to ensure the overwhelming majority of our parents wanting a primary school place have been given their first choice of school.

“Education is a top priority for us in Merton, and we will always do our best to ensure our residents receive a place for their children in a school of their choice. I urge those parents who have not yet received an offer to ensure they use all their available preferences for schools on their application forms in time for the second round.’

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