Nearly nine in ten children applying for secondary school places in Oxfordshire have secured their first-choice school for September 2026, according to figures released by Oxfordshire County Council.
A total of 85.4 per cent of pupils across the county received an offer from their first preference school, while 96.4 per cent were allocated a place at one of their preferred schools. National comparison data for this year will be published later.
Sean Gaul, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Young People’s Services, welcomed the outcome. He said:
“We aim to give all children the best start in life and educational and learning opportunities are fundamental to this.
“It’s a big step moving from primary to secondary school, often from a small school to a very much larger setting. So, I’m delighted that we have been able to offer the vast majority of applicants their first choice of school.
“Thanks to the county council teams who have been working hard to deliver this outcome.”
The council noted that some families were unable to secure their first preference where demand for specific schools exceeded available spaces.
Parents and carers who wish to challenge their child’s allocation have until 31 March 2026 to lodge an appeal.
Children can also be placed on waiting lists for schools where places may become available before September. Waiting lists will open on 25 May.
Families who have not yet submitted an application for a September 2026 secondary school place are advised to contact the council via email at admissions.schools@oxfordshire.gov.uk or by calling 01865 519800 (option 2).
