Secondary school place allocations announced

Some 93% of young people in Wolverhampton have secured a place at one of their preferred secondary schools, figures show – up 1% year-on-year.

The allocation of places for pupils who will be starting secondary education for the first time this September was announced today (Monday 2 March).

Councillor Dr Michael Hardacre, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: "We understand how important getting into the right school is to pupils and their parents, and we want as many of our young people as possible to secure a place at one of their preferred schools.

"Demand for places in Wolverhampton schools is increasing all the time. Some 13,000 more pupils attend Good or Outstanding-rated schools in the city today than they did five years ago, and we're continuing to see improved outcomes for children and young people across the board, from our very youngest pupils to those heading into further education, employment or training for the first time.

"I am pleased for the vast majority of pupils who have achieved a place at their first choice school or one of their preferred schools, and I am sure they will be looking forward to making the transition to secondary education later this year.

“However, because of the high level of demand for places in Wolverhampton’s schools – with many schools oversubscribed – there are always going to be a small number of children who don't get a place at one of their preferred schools. It's important to stress, however, that they have been allocated a place at a city school.

"Waiting lists will be in operation over the coming months and any places will be made available as and when they become free, while parents who are unhappy with the allocation made for their child can make an appeal if they wish, which will be considered by an independent panel."

Parents of children due to start secondary school this autumn who haven't yet applied for a place should do so immediately by calling the council's school admissions team on 01902 551122.

Meanwhile, parents whose children will start their secondary education in September 2021 are being encouraged to begin thinking about their preferred school now.

Councillor Dr Hardacre added: "With demand for school places likely to be high again next year, I would like to remind parents of pupils entering secondary education in 2021 that they should get their applications in promptly when the window opens in September 2020 – as missing the deadline could significantly affect the chances of securing a place at their preferred school."

To find out more about education in Wolverhampton, please visit www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/education.