NEARLY all parents across Northumberland have gained their top preference of first or primary school on National Offers Day.

Of the 2,784 parents who applied on time, a total of 2,729 - at 98 per cent - achieved their first preference of place, while 99.9 per cent were offered one of their top three preferences.

The figures were up on last year, with 97.3 per cent offered their first choice school in 2018.

Dean Jackson, director of education and skills at Northumberland County Council said:  “This is great news for the vast majority of Northumberland parents.

“The council is working hard to ensure that there are enough school places for children in their catchment schools, and this outcome on National Offers Day for primary schools is testament to this work.”


Northumberland’s school admissions team will assume that parents’ wish to accept their school place unless they advise otherwise.  Should they wish to refuse a place, parents need to contact the team, giving their child's name, date of birth and reason for refusal, before May 1.

Parents who wish to query their offers, or ask other questions, should email schooladmissions@northumberland.gov.uk or call on (01670) 624889.