Nearly 93% of children have been offered their parents' first or second preference of secondary school.

Parents of 16,758 pupils are discovering the outcome of their secondary school applications today in Essex (Monday 3 March).

Just over 97% of children - more than 19 out of every 20 - are being offered one of their named preferences of secondary schools for the 2025 academic year.

A total of 83.86% are being offered their parents' first preference this year, with a further 8.72% being offered their second preference.

This means 92.58% have been offered either their parents' first or second preference.

This year, 99% of families applied online and will receive their offer by email or the council's website.

Councillor Tony Ball, Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability at Essex County Council, said: "I am really pleased to see that, once again, we have been able to offer so many pupils their parents' preferred secondary school place this year.

"Starting secondary school is a hugely important milestone in a child's life and I hope those embarking on this exciting next step enjoy their last few months at primary and junior school before starting their next academic adventure."