2nd March 2026
Almost nine out of ten Oxfordshire children applying for secondary school places across the county have been offered a place at their first choice school for September.
In total 85.4 per cent of pupils have received a first preference offer in Oxfordshire and 96.4 per cent were offered a preferred school. This year’s national figures will be published later in the year.
Councillor Sean Gaul, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Young People’s Services, said: “We aim to give all children the best start in life and educational and learning opportunities are fundamental to this.
“It’s a big step moving from primary to secondary school, often from a small school to a very much larger setting. So, I’m delighted that we have been able to offer the vast majority of applicants their first choice of school.
“Thanks to the county council teams who have been working hard to deliver this outcome.”
Some families are not offered their first preference where applications for particular schools exceed available spaces.
Families wishing to challenge the outcome of their application can appeal by 31 March 2026.
Children's names can also be added to waiting lists in case places become available at schools they are interested in between now and September. Waiting lists start on 25 May.
Anyone who has yet to apply for a secondary school place for their child for September 2026 should email the council on [email protected] or phone 01865 519800 (option 2).
