ALMOST 16,000 parents and carers across the county will find out the outcome of their primary school applications today (Wednesday 16 April).

This year, Essex County Council received a total of 15,618 primary school applications.

Of these, 14,107 pupils who are due to start in Reception in September 2025 have been offered their parent or carer’s first preference of primary school.

This is 90.33% of the total cohort.

Another 5.86 per cent of children were offered their parents’ second preference of school. This means 96.19% of parents have been offered their first or second preference.

In total, 98.37% of parents have been offered one of their named preferences of primary school.

Councillor Tony Ball, Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability said: “Starting school for the first time is a hugely important milestone in any child’s life. I wish all children in Essex starting their academic journeys in September every success.

“We continue to invest in creating additional primary school capacity so that as many parents and carers as possible receive their preference of school for their child.”

Those who applied online will receive confirmation by email or by visiting the Essex County Council website.

More information about school place planning in Essex is available at: https://www.essex.gov.uk/school-organisation-and-place-planning/school-organisation-and-place-planning-service.