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Record breaking year for families receiving first choice primary schools

Thursday, 16 April 2026 10:29

Primary Schools.

This year has seen the highest number of first-choice offers on record.

Families across North Yorkshire, including those in Harrogate and Skipton, have been finding out which primary schools their children will attend from September.

Figures released on National Offer Day, April 16th show that 96% of families in the county secured their first-choice primary school, an increase on last year’s figure of 95%.

Overall, 99% of applicants were offered a place at one of their top three preferred schools.

A total of 5,137 children are due to start primary school across North Yorkshire this September, marking an important milestone for families as children begin their formal education.

The results place the county above the national average, where 92.6% of families received their first-choice offer last year.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for education, learning and skills, Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, said:

“Starting school for the first time is such a key milestone and we are pleased that 2026 is a record year for families who applied for primary school places here in North Yorkshire and will see their children going to a school of their choice.

“It is always our intention to support as many parents as possible with their preferences and this year we have seen outstanding numbers of families successful in gaining admission to the primary school of their choice.

“We are proud to have excellent schools across North Yorkshire and we look forward to welcoming our new starters in September.

"I wish every child the very best as they begin this exciting next step in their learning journey.”

Parents and carers of children due to start primary school in September 2027 will be able to begin applications from October 15th this year.

Following the allocation of places, North Yorkshire Council will now assess eligibility for free home-to-school transport, with families expected to receive updates by mid-June.

Free transport is typically provided for children attending their nearest suitable school if the distance exceeds two miles for those under eight, or three miles for older pupils.

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