YOUNG people heading to primary school this year have received their offer of places in Wiltshire.

And Wiltshire Council says a total of 99% of county children have been offered one of their three primary school preferences, with 96% offered their first choice.

A total of 4,911 applications were made, with 4,858 of those online.

Parents and carers who have applied online will be sent an email confirming the school place offered to their child unless they have selected to receive their decision by the Parent Portal, in which case they will need to log on to view the outcome.

Those who have submitted a paper application will receive a letter confirming the outcome of their application. These will be posted on April 16.

All parents and carers have until April 30 to confirm if they wish to accept or decline the place offered to their child.

Parents will need their user ID and password to do so.

Laura Mayes, cabinet member for education and skills, said: “Today marks an important first step as children prepare to start their school days.

“We know that many families will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of their school application and we wish them all the best in this next chapter.

“Once again I’m pleased to announce that 99% of Wiltshire children, have secured a place at one of their preferred schools, which will be welcome news for most families.

Laura Mayes, cabinet member for education and skills at Wiltshire Council

“I’d like to thank our hard-working officers for their careful planning which ensures we have sufficient places across the county for all our pupils.”

The right to an independent appeal is open to anyone who has not received an offer at one of their preferred schools, the council confirmed.

Parents who wish to appeal for a place at a voluntary controlled or community school should visit wiltshire.gov.uk for details of how to appeal.

Those who wish to appeal for a place at a voluntary aided, foundation school or an academy should contact the school directly.

Parents who have any further general queries regarding admissions should email admissions@wiltshire.gov.uk, or contact Wiltshire Council’s customer services on 01225 713010.