New figures show 97 per cent of Sheffield pupils have a place at one of their three chosen secondary schools for September

Of the 6,598 students set to start secondary school in September, 97 per cent have been given a place at one of their three preferences, while 90 per cent have been given their first choice of school. These statistics, which have been released by Sheffield City Council, mean that Sheffield is once again performing above the national average.

Councillor Abtisam Mohammed, the council's Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “I hope today’s results are a big relief to the thousands of families across Sheffield who have been waiting to find out if their child has been accepted into one of their preferred schools.

“The opening of the two new secondary schools Mercia and Astrea in the south west and north east of the city, has helped to meet the demands of the city, however there continues to be pressures on places as a result of increasing pupil numbers.

“We all want the best for our children and a huge priority for us is to keep on raising attainment and achievement rates across the city. Getting children into their preferred school and providing outstanding local schools are key to this.”

The children who were not allocated a place at any of their three preferences have either been referred back to their catchment school or been allocated the nearest school with places available.

Parents also have the right to appeal decisions and any submitted will take place between April and July.