This year has seen the highest number of first-choice offers on record.
Families across North Yorkshire, including those in Harrogate and Skipton, have been finding out which primary schools their children will attend from September.
Figures released on National Offer Day, April 16th show that 96% of families in the county secured their first-choice primary school, an increase on last year’s figure of 95%.
Overall, 99% of applicants were offered a place at one of their top three preferred schools.
A total of 5,137 children are due to start primary school across North Yorkshire this September, marking an important milestone for families as children begin their formal education.
The results place the county above the national average, where 92.6% of families received their first-choice offer last year.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for education, learning and skills, Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, said:
“Starting school for the first time is such a key milestone and we are pleased that 2026 is a record year for families who applied for primary school places here in North Yorkshire and will see their children going to a school of their choice.
“It is always our intention to support as many parents as possible with their preferences and this year we have seen outstanding numbers of families successful in gaining admission to the primary school of their choice.
“We are proud to have excellent schools across North Yorkshire and we look forward to welcoming our new starters in September.
"I wish every child the very best as they begin this exciting next step in their learning journey.”
Parents and carers of children due to start primary school in September 2027 will be able to begin applications from October 15th this year.
Following the allocation of places, North Yorkshire Council will now assess eligibility for free home-to-school transport, with families expected to receive updates by mid-June.
Free transport is typically provided for children attending their nearest suitable school if the distance exceeds two miles for those under eight, or three miles for older pupils.

Pop-up pumpkin patch and monster trail coming to Skipton
Motorcyclist dies following collision on A629 near Skipton
Louis Theroux makes special visit to Martin House children's hospice
Skipton football matches raise £2,100 for Manorlands Hospice
Stump Cross Caverns named finalist in family business awards
Keighley Healthy Living celebrates 25 years of growth
Dunelm Keighley partner with Airedale Hospital for Christmas appeal
Popular Big Skipton Quiz returns to raise funds for children’s charity
Leeds Bradford Airport strikes to 'escalate' over half term
Yorkshire Water sewer capacity threatens new homes and funding, says councillor
Hellifield businessman raises over £1,400 with 50-mile challenge
Growing pressure on North Yorkshire farmers, reports warn
Elsworth at The Mill named finalist in prestigious Yorkshire food awards
Cracoe farming content creator set to be part of Yorkshire Farming Conference
Skipton Business Awards raises more than £1,600 for cancer charity
Scarborough’s Alpamare waterpark set to be sold with 99-year car park lease
Martin House opens new memorial garden for bereaved families
More than £80,000 raised at Sue Ryder Starlight Hike
Mayor joins India trade mission as leaders target £170m boost for Yorkshire
Terrifying Halloween Scare Train returning to Keighley railway


