PARENTS and carers can find out today whether their children have secured a place at their preferred secondary school.

Allocation emails are being sent out during the day to families of pupils transferring into Years 7 and 9 in September.

Figures released by Dorset Council show that nearly 99% of Year 7 applicants have been offered their first-choice school.

For those moving into Year 9, 94% have secured their top preference.

Overall, 97.2% of families received their first choice – a figure in line with last year’s allocations.

Clare Sutton, cabinet portfolio holder for children’s services, education and skills, welcomed the news.

She said: “I am delighted that so many families have got their first preference, meaning that our children will be going to local schools.

“As these students get ready to start their educational journey in September, I want to wish them all the best for a successful and fulfilling experience.”

Parents and carers who have not been offered their first preference school have the right to appeal.

Details of the appeals process and the council’s school allocations policy are available on the council’s website.