Highest number of Southwark families receive a primary school place on their list of preferences

By Grainne Cuffe, local democracy reporter

The percentage of Southwark families who received a primary school place on their list of preferences is the highest since records began in 2009.

The council announced today that 98.8 per cent (2,765) of on-time primary applications for September 2021 received at least one preference, up from last year’s 98 per cent.

Nearly 88 per cent of families received a place at a first preference school.

Councillor Jasmine Ali, deputy leader and cabinet member for children, young people and education said it was “very welcome good news after such a tough year for schools, parents and children”.

“I am delighted that the vast majority of parents will be receiving the news they have been waiting for, and that the children can look forward to an exciting learning journey ahead of them in one of Southwark’s fantastic primary schools.

“I wish all the children every success and offer my sincere thanks to all the school and council staff who have worked so hard during the allocation process,” she said.

Parents who did not receive any of their preferences will have the opportunity to speak to council officers over Zoom for advice and support.

The virtual surgeries will be held on Monday, April 19, and Tuesday, April 20, while a personalised email has been sent to each of these families and includes information on how they can book a slot.

Parents, who were informed about school places on April 16, have until 30 April to reject their offer if it is not required.