OVER 6,800 Gloucestershire children, including those from the Forest of Dean, who applied on time will be offered a secondary school place for September 2025. Of those, 81 per cent will receive a place at their first preference school.

Parents of pupils in the region can expect to receive their school place offer on Monday, March 3. For the majority of parents, who applied online, an email will be sent after 9:00 AM confirming the school place, with a reminder that they have until March 10 to accept the offer or request an alternative school.

The figures show that 93 per cent of pupils across Gloucestershire will receive one of their preferred school choices. This reflects a strong result for local families, with many parents able to secure a place at a preferred school close to home.

Cllr Stephen Davies, leader of Gloucestershire County Council, commented: “Going on to secondary school is a big step for our young people, and I wish them well for their next stage of their journey. I’m delighted that we have been able to offer so many pupils a school of their choice for September.”

For parents who did not apply online, a letter will be sent on March 3 outlining the school offer and explaining the decision.

If parents are not happy with their initial offer, they may request their child’s school place to be reconsidered. This will place them on a waiting list for their preferred schools. Should any spaces open up, they will be offered a place according to the school’s admission policy.

The outcome of reconsiderations will be communicated by March 28, with parents having until April 2 to respond. For those who are still dissatisfied with the offer, further information on the appeals process will be provided.