Some 92% of young people in Wolverhampton have secured a place at one of their preferred secondary schools, figures show.

The allocation of places for pupils who will be starting secondary education for the first time this September was announced today (Wednesday 1 March, 2023).

Councillor Chris Burden, 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 carers, 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 secondary schools is extremely high 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 high number of pupils who have achieved a place at their first preferred 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 remember, however, that they have been allocated a place at a city school.

“If you are happy with the place that your child has been offered, then you do not need to do anything further and you will be contacted in due course by the allocated school.

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

Parents or carers of children who are 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 or via school.admissions@wolverhampton.gov.uk.

Meanwhile, parents whose children will start their secondary education in September 2024 are being encouraged to begin thinking about their preferred schools now.

Councillor Burden added: "With demand for school places likely to be high again next year, I would like to remind parents of pupils who will be moving up to secondary school in 2024 that they should submit their applications promptly when the window opens in September 2023 – 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 Education and Schools.