More than 98% of new pupils have been offered their first-choice school in the Westmorland and Furness area.

Of 1,753 applicants across the area applying for primary school places for this September, 1,727 were allocated their first preference.

Milorad Vasic, director of children’s services at Westmorland and Furness Council, said: “I recognise how stressful the start of school and the transition can be, so I am delighted that so many children have secured a place at one of their preferred schools.

“We would like to thank our schools for all their support and for working so closely with families to ensure the local authority received as many on-time applications as possible.

"I wish all children who are starting primary school this September every success and happiness.”

A total of 99.8% were offered either their first, second or third preference school.

According to the gov.uk website, in 2023, 92.5% of families across the UK received an offer from their first choice of primary school and 98.3% received an offer from one of their top three choices.

As a newly established Local Authority, this is the first time that Westmorland and Furness Local Authority has managed the primary phased admissions process.

Parents and carers have been informed of their allocated school via email or letter, depending on their preference.

Those who have not been offered places for their children at their first preference school are being provided with information about how to lodge an appeal.

However, parents and carers are advised to contact Westmorland and Furness School Admissions Team at  school.admissions@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk if they have any queries, with a member of the team happy to assist.