Thousands of schoolchildren have got their first choice secondary school as places have been announced across the county.

West Sussex County Council worked with schools to ensure that every child who applied was offered a secondary school place this year.

There was a total of 9104 secondary school applications in the county.

Over 85 per cent, or 7900 applicants were be offered their first preference school

And 97.8 per cent of all applicants this year will be offered one of their three preferences.

Jacquie Russell, West Sussex’s cabinet member for children, young people, learning and skills, said: “Every day I see the difference that education and our schools make to the lives of our children and young people, helping them to fulfil their potential.

“I am pleased that we have been able to offer a large percentage of families one of their three preferences, with a large number securing their first preference.

“To all the children currently in year six I would like to wish you a happy and successful final term at primary school and good luck as you start your secondary education in September.”