Almost 96 per cent of Medway children will be starting their school life at one of their preferred primary schools this September.

The latest school admissions figures reveal that more than 87 per cent of children have secured a place at their first preference school, almost 7 per cent at their second preference, and just over 1.5 per cent at their third.

Families across Medway will shortly start receiving news of the primary school their child has been offered for September 2016 with letters posted today by first class, and emails will be sent out after 4pm (for those that applied online and provided an e-mail address).

The school admissions process involves the council processing applications for 3,533 Medway resident pupils and 121 out of area pupils.

The numbers of applications continue to grow year on year with nearly 700 more received this year compared with those in 2010.

Applications for primary school places opened in September last year and parents had until January 15 to submit their applications to the council, naming up to six schools.

Cllr Mike O’Brien, who is in charge of children’s services,said: “It is wonderful to see so many children in Medway offered a place at one of their preferred schools and such a high number at their first choice school.

“Starting school is a really big step for children and their families, as well as an incredibly exciting time and I’d like to wish all children starting their education this September the very best of luck.”

Barbara Peacock, director of children’s services, said:“I am pleased lots of Medway children have gained places at one of their named schools for September. This is an important step as children begin their school life.”