It’s welcome news for families across Wiltshire and Bath and North East Somerset, with the vast majority of children securing one of their preferred secondary schools for September.
Figures released by Wiltshire Council show that 98.34% of families were offered one of their three preferred secondary schools for September 2026.
An impressive 93.85% secured their first preference.
There were slightly fewer applications than in 2025, as the year group transferring to secondary school this September is slightly smaller. Almost all families chose to apply online, with 99% of applications submitted digitally.
Parents and carers who applied online and selected email communication will receive confirmation of their child’s place by email. Those who opted to receive their decision via the Parent Portal will need to log back in to view the outcome.
Families have until 16 March 2026 to accept or decline their allocated place.
Cllr Jon Hubbard, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said, “It’s that time of year again when families across Wiltshire are waiting to hear about their secondary school places, and I’m pleased that so many have received offers that reflect their preferences.
“I encourage families to take time to read through their offer carefully and follow the next steps outlined, whether that’s accepting the place or seeking further guidance. Our admissions team is on hand to support anyone who has questions.
“These positive figures are the result of the careful planning and commitment shown by our officers, helping to secure sufficient school places now and in the future.”
Strong results in Bath & North East Somerset
Similarly positive figures have been reported by Bath & North East Somerset Council.
Of the 1,845 on-time applications from local residents, 97.1% of children due to start secondary school this September were offered one of their stated preferences.
In total, 88.8% of pupils – 1,638 children – secured their first preference. A further 130 children were offered their second preference, 21 received their third preference and three were offered their fourth preference.
No pupils were allocated a fifth preference.
Fifty-three children were not offered any of their chosen schools and have instead been allocated a place at their next nearest school with spaces available, known as a referral.
All children in Bath and North East Somerset who submitted an on-time application have been offered a secondary school place for September.
What parents need to know
Parents who submitted paper applications in Wiltshire before the 31 October 2025 deadline will receive a letter confirming the outcome. Offer letters were posted on 2 March 2026.
Families who have not received an offer at one of their preferred schools have the right to submit an independent appeal. In Wiltshire, parents wishing to appeal for a place at a voluntary controlled or community school should visit the ‘Apply for a school place’ page on the council’s website. For voluntary aided, foundation schools or academies, parents should contact the school directly.
Parents and carers in Bath and North East Somerset can also find further information about the admissions process and next steps via the council’s website at www.bathnes.gov.uk/school-admissions
For thousands of Year 6 pupils across the region, the next stage of their education journey is now one step closer.
