'A big milestone': Majority of children get first choice for secondary school places
Most children in Lincolnshire have been offered a place at the secondary school they wanted this year.
Of the 8,517 pupils who applied, 86% — that’s 7,291 children — have been given a place at their first-choice school. Thanks to appeals and changes on reserve lists, more are expected to get their top pick before term starts in September.
Currently, 9% have been offered a place at their second choice, with 2% getting their third choice. Overall, 97% of applicants will go to one of their preferred schools. The small number who couldn’t be offered a preferred school — just 3% — will be offered a place at the nearest school with a space available.
Coun Natalie Oliver, Executive Councillor for Children’s Services, said: “We know families put a lot of thought into choosing the right secondary school for their child, so I’m delighted we’ve been able to offer so many their preferred school again this year.
"Starting secondary school is a big milestone, and I’m sure those moving into Year 7 this autumn will thrive at their new school.”
Parents who applied online will have received their offer letters by email today (Monday 2 March 2026). Those who applied by phone or on paper will have their letters posted first class today.
If parents are not happy with the school they’ve been offered, they can revise their application online or lodge an appeal by midnight on 30 March 2026. Appeals submitted before this date will be heard before the end of the summer term; later submissions may not be heard until the last week of term or September. Full details are available at: www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/school-admissions/appeal-school-place.
Parents also need to apply for school transport by 31 May 2026 if they want arrangements in place for September. Details are in the offer letter or at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/school-college-transport.
For more information on school admissions, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/schooladmissions.