More than nine in ten children across Oxfordshire have been offered a place at their first choice primary school for September 2026, according to the latest admissions figures released by Oxfordshire County Council.
In total, 93.9 per cent of applicants secured their first preference, while an overwhelming 99.2 per cent were offered a place at one of their preferred schools. The figures highlight a strong outcome for families across the county as children prepare to begin their formal education.
While national data for this year is yet to be published, the local figures suggest Oxfordshire continues to perform strongly in meeting parental preferences for school placements.
Councillor Sean Gaul, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Young People’s Services, emphasised the importance of early education in shaping long-term outcomes.
“Children’s early years are an important stepping stone that will set them up for the future, which is why we place great importance in our aim of providing primary places based on parents’ preferences.
“It’s likely to take these children a bit of time to adjust to their new experience of going to school, therefore I’m pleased we’ve been able to offer the vast majority of applicants their first choice.
“Thanks to the county council teams who have been working hard to deliver this outcome.”
Despite the high success rate, a small number of families were not offered their first-choice school, typically due to oversubscription where demand exceeded available places. Those dissatisfied with their allocation have the option to appeal, with the deadline set for 15 May 2026.
Parents and carers can also request for their child’s name to be added to waiting lists for preferred schools. These lists will open on 22 June 2026 and provide an opportunity for places to be reassigned should they become available before the start of term.
The council has also issued a reminder for any families who have yet to apply for a primary school place for September 2026 to contact the admissions team directly.
As thousands of children prepare to take their first steps into the classroom, the figures offer reassurance that the vast majority will be doing so at a school their families had hoped for.
