Almost 97% of Medway’s primary aged children have been offered one of their preference places at secondary school.

Families across Medway find out today what school their child has been offered for September 2013 with letters being posted by first class on National Offer Day, today.

Parents who applied online and provided an e-mail address will also receive an e-mail of their offer after 4pm.

Of the 2,820 Medway children offered places, nearly 86% have been offered their first preference place, more than 7% have been awarded their second place preference and 2% their third preference.

The school admissions team at Medway processed secondary school applications for 3,163 children in total including 363 out of area children this year.

Parents could select up to six schools and every child will receive the offer of a place at a school.

More than 87% of families submitted their preferences online, using the council's online application form.

Cllr Les Wicks, who is in charge of children's services, said: “Finding out which school your child has been allocated is always a major event for families.

“I am pleased that the vast majority have been offered one of their preference places and that such a high number have been allocated a place at their first choice secondary school.

“I’d like to wish all the children the very best for their future studies and during their time at secondary school.”

Barbara Peacock, director of children and adult services, added: “It’s good to see so many children gaining places at one of their chosen schools.

“We have a fantastic selection of secondary schools here across all of Medway and I wish all children and their families the very best for their years of education ahead.

Parents who are unhappy with the school offered can go on waiting lists and/or appeal their offer. Further information on how to go about this in included with the offer letter.

Appeal decisions are made by a panel that is independent of the school or the council.