Today, secondary school admission figures for entry in September 2018 are published. 92.3 per cent of York pupils have got their first preference.

While the percentage of first choice places remains the same as last year, 98 per cent children got one of their first three preferences representing an increase of 0.5 per cent on last year.

The number of online applications for secondary school places has continued to increase and this year, 97 per cent applied online, that’s 0.9 per cent more than in 2017.

Parents who applied online will be notified of their child’s place by email at 10am today, letters are being posted today to parents and those with online accounts can log in to the council’s parent portal at www.york.gov.uk/parentportal.

With more pupils entering secondary schools this year than last year apply for their catchment school and were informed which school this was in writing. Some chose not to follow this advice.

Besides parents being advised by letter, we will be posting advice and timelines offering advice and support throughout these 10 days on social media @School_Services .

Councillor Carol Runciman, executive member for education, children and young people, said: “I’m delighted that so many pupils will be able to attend the secondary school of their choice.

“Here in York, we continue to provide an educational experience that is among the best in the UK and this is a significant reason for families to settle in the city.

“Maintaining our high standards alongside meeting a growing demand for places is an ongoing challenge. It’s one we continue to meet and to which we are committed.”

“I urge any parent whose children may be eligible for free school meals – one of a number of benefits that come with applying for the pupil premium – to apply via their online account at www.york.gov.uk/parentportal